skip to main content

Funding Round Opens for Music Export Growth Scheme

Round 22 of funding for small to medium sized music companies looking to build the profile of their artists overseas will close on 4 December 2023. The Music Export Growth Scheme will also be running an explanatory webinar on 27 November.

Published: 15 November 2023 | 10:58 AM
A mobile phone is left resting on the background of a passport, a wodge of euros and a map
MEGS is designed to make available grants ranging from £5,000 - £50,000 to UK-registered independent music companies

Applications for Round 22 of the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS) have now opened, and will close at 11:59 pm on 4 December 2023. Due to Department for Business and Trading (DBT) funding rules, any funding awarded in this round must be claimed by 31 March 2024. No money will be paid out after that date.

MEGS exists to boost British music exports by supporting small to medium sized music companies as they build on the commercial potential and profile of their artists in overseas markets. This latest round of the Scheme run by the record labels’ association, the BPI, is funded through the DBT and the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

Submitting your application for MEGS

As with previous rounds applications we will be allowing non-touring applications as well as hybrid applications, alongside traditional touring applications. If you are unsure of what to include in your application, please contact us to discuss. Eligibility, criteria and more details on the process are available on the BPI website here.

If you have any queries on the application process or the scheme itself, please contact musicexportscheme@bpi.co.uk

You can submit an application on the BPI MEGS website.

Find out more through the MEGS webinar

MEGS will also be hosting a webinar on Monday 27 November at 1:30 pm.

Join Chris Tams (who runs the scheme) as he goes through the scheme, how to apply and gives tips and advice on maximising your chance of success

Through the session you will find out more about how MEGS is designed to make available grants ranging from £5,000 - £50,000 to UK-registered independent music companies to assist them with marketing campaigns when looking to introduce successful UK music projects overseas.

Sign up for the MEGS webinar via Universe.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

The UK and EU flags, waved together in front of Big Ben in London.

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

The EU/UK Culture Forum has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to rejoin Creative Europe from 2027. The programme supports funding and cultural collaboration across Europe, and the MU is encouraging members to sign and show their support.

Published: 26 February 2026

Read more about MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme
A crowd with their hands raised at a music festival.

MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham

Taking place from 7-9 May, FOCUS Wales is an international showcase spotlighting over 250 artists and featuring industry sessions, arts events, film screenings and more. The MU will be hosting a series of coffee morning drop-in sessions, as well as an afternoon mixer event.

Published: 24 February 2026

Read more about MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham
Empty music classroom with seats and sheet stands.

Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks

From 17 February 2026, legislative changes in Northern Ireland allow self-employed musicians working with children and vulnerable adults to apply for an Enhanced AccessNI disclosure check through a registered Umbrella Body.

Published: 23 February 2026

Read more about Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks