Applications are now open for the 2025 Gerry Anderson Music Bursary, a £5,000 award created to support emerging musicians from Ulster as they take the next vital step in their careers.

Presented in memory of the beloved broadcaster and musician Gerry Anderson, the bursary honours his lifelong dedication to originality, creativity and championing local talent. Delivered in partnership with the Oh Yeah Music Centre, the initiative is open to solo artists and bands currently based in Ulster – including NI Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan.

As well as the cash award, successful applicants will receive industry mentoring and support, echoing the generous spirit with which Anderson uplifted countless musicians throughout his life. Whether it’s used to fund recording sessions, tour plans, production or promotion, the bursary offers flexible backing for artists who are ready to push their practice further.

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to innovation, artistic merit self-driven progress, and a growing fanbase. The judging panel – comprising Gerry Anderson’s family, friends and music industry figures – will select recipients based on the anticipated impact of the award and the strength of their existing work. Depending on the applications, more than one artist may be awarded.

Entries are open until 31st August 2025. Shortlisted acts will be announced via geraldmichaelanderson.com in late October, with the recipient(s) revealed in November.

To apply, artists should send contact details, a short bio, examples of two tracks and a 500-word statement outlining how they meet the criteria to: Treasa@geraldmichaelanderson.com

Full application details and eligibility guidelines are available on the official website. With £3,000 of the total bursary generously contributed by IMRO, the award continues to grow in both reach and resonance – offering tangible support to the next generation of artists across Ulster.