Arts Council England has announced the first recipients of its Music Growth Package, including MMF, with awards intended to support UK music creators and independent businesses.
The Music Growth Package (MGP) Sector Bodies Programme provides one-off funding for established music industry bodies to invest in skills, artist support and international export opportunities.
Who the awards will reach
Across the 11 sector bodies, the first funded initiatives are expected to directly benefit:
- More than 5,000 artists and music creators.
- 1,200 individual industry professionals.
- 7,500 music businesses.
The initiatives are also expected to reach more than 20,000 members and at least 3,000 individuals and organisations that are not currently members of the sector bodies.
The funding aims to improve access to music industry jobs, support independent and smaller businesses, strengthen regional provision and improve representation.
It will also support infrastructure intended to help people develop sustainable careers and bring their work to international markets.
A three-year funding programme
The sector bodies programme forms part of the £45 million Music Growth Package, a three-year investment by the UK Government and Arts Council England.
The package supports artists, music creators, industry professionals and music businesses across the UK. Its projected reach includes:
- More than 2,000 projects over three years.
- At least 40,000 artists and music professionals.
- Thousands of music fans in the UK and internationally.
Policy context and next steps
The package was announced as part of Turn It Up: Our Plan for Music, a long-term strategic policy paper and support package launched by Secretary of State Lisa Nandy in July 2026.
The plan sets out the government’s commitment to supporting the UK as a place to create, experience and invest in music.
Further details of Scale Up and how MMF will help members apply for Music Growth Fund initiatives will be announced soon.
