The Youth Music NextGen Fund offers young creatives the chance to secure grants of up to £2,500 to bring their projects to life. This fund is targeted at early-stage musicians and those in adjacent creative roles who may struggle financially to pursue their ambitions. Whether you are a singer, rapper, songwriter, producer, DJ, A&R, manager, or agent—or even if you occupy a role that defies typical industry labels—the NextGen Fund aims to support your growth and vision.

The fund is open to individuals aged 18–25, with eligibility extended up to 30 for those who identify as d/Deaf, neurodivergent, or Disabled. This includes applicants from all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland, making it a vital resource for young Northern Irish creatives looking to make their mark in the music industry. The fund’s purpose is to address financial barriers that hold talented individuals back and to ensure a more inclusive and diverse future for the music scene.

Applications for Round 10 are currently open, with a deadline of 15 November 2024 at 5pm. Successful applicants will be informed by February 2025. The funding can be used to cover a variety of project needs, from recording and production costs to marketing and promotional efforts, giving applicants the flexibility to tailor the funding to their specific requirements.

For more detailed information on the application process and guidance on how to apply, visit the Youth Music website. This is an invaluable opportunity for emerging musicians and creatives in Northern Ireland and beyond to push forward with their projects and make meaningful progress in their careers.