The new fund aims to help experienced artists and music creators develop their work, pursue new opportunities and build sustainable careers. Image credit: Shutterstock.
Arts Council England has launched the Music Creators Growth Fund, offering grants of £10,000 to £20,000 for experienced artists and music creators. Applications open on 1 October 2026, with funding available to support career development, touring and international activity.
The new fund forms part of the Government's Music Growth Package, a £45 million investment programme supporting growth across the UK music sector through to March 2029.
Eligibility criteria
Music creators from any of the UK's four nations can apply for support for international activity. Applicants based in England can also apply for funding to support touring and other professional activity within the UK.
The fund is open to experienced music creators working in any genre, including:
- Artists
- Artist collectives
- Bands and groups
- Composers
- DJs
- Producers
- Songwriters
Applicants must be able to demonstrate a strong professional track record of at least three years. Visit the Arts Council England website for a full breakdown of eligibility criteria.
Free guidance webinars available
Arts Council England will also be providing multiple guidance webinars for interested artists to learn more about the fund and the application process, as well as ask any questions.
The webinars are free to attend with limited places available, and take place on:
- Thursday 17 September, 10am - 11am
- Wednesday 23 September, 12pm - 1pm
- Thursday 1 October, 3pm - 4pm
- Monday 5 October, 3pm - 4pm
- Tuesday 13 October, 1pm - 2pm
- Monday 19 October, 2pm - 3pm
Register via Eventbrite to book your place in advance.
Applications open on 1 October
Applications to the Round One of the Music Creators Growth Fund open from 1 October to 29 October 2026. Artists will need to have an approved profile on Arts Council England's grants management system before submitting their application.
To help applicants prepare, accessible versions of the guidance and an offline version of the application form will be made available before the application window opens. Members interested in applying should read the full guidance before preparing an application.
Visit the Music Creators Growth Fund guidance page for full eligibility criteria, application guidance and further information.
If you have questions about the Music Growth Package programmes delivered by Arts Council England, contact the team at MusicGrowthPackage@artscouncil.org.uk.