The initiative seeks to increase the international visibility of the North's music sector and create stronger connections with overseas industry partners. Photo: Shutterstock.
Officially launched at SXSW London (the first European edition of South by Southwest Festival) in June, the NMEO is the UK's first pan-regional music export office, bringing together partners across the North East, Tees Valley, West Yorkshire and Liverpool City Region.
Led by the region's mayors and powered by music development agency Generator, the initiative aims to strengthen support for artists, managers, labels and music businesses looking to develop national and international careers.
The organisation will provide a range of support measures including touring grants, export development programmes, mentoring opportunities and specialist resources designed to help Northern artists access global markets and build long-term careers.
The initiative also seeks to increase the international visibility of the North's music sector and create stronger connections with overseas industry partners.
MU Regional Officer for the North of England, Philip Morris, advocates: “The launch represents a welcome investment in regional music infrastructure at a time when many musicians continue to face significant barriers to touring and career development. Rising costs and unequal access to industry support have made it increasingly difficult for artists to take the next step in their careers, particularly outside traditional industry centres.”
Northern Music Export Office backs UKAT
The MU also welcomes the NMEO's first major programme, delivered in partnership with the Featured Artists Coalition (FAC), MU and Music Managers Forum (MMF) to support the UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT). It will offer co-investment of up to £10,000 alongside practical touring support for artists based in the North East, Tees Valley and West Yorkshire, helping to reduce the financial risks associated with domestic touring.
In the first phase, which was made possible through funding from the LIVE Trust, application criteria was limited to headline shows taking place before 31 October 2026. However, phase two will welcome applications for a mix of headline and support shows as well as festival appearances.
David Martin, Chief Executive of the Featured Artists Coalition, says: "From day one, our intention has always been to adapt and evolve the UKAT funding model to support the demands of UK artists. We want to ensure UKAT is accessible and relevant to all genres and backgrounds.
"This exciting partnership with the Northern Music Export Office is forged in that spirit — allowing us to expand the fund's benefits, tap into local networks and expertise and provide targeted help to artists based in the North East, Tees Valley and West Yorkshire. I look forward to working with the NMEO in the weeks and months ahead."
National touring remains a crucial route for musicians seeking to grow audiences, gain experience and generate income. However, research cited by talent development agency Generator found that 84% of independent UK artists said they could not afford to tour, while more than 60% had turned down touring opportunities because of financial pressures. Against this backdrop, initiatives that help artists perform live and expand their reach are increasingly important.
The MU are hosting a one-hour webinar for MU members on Thursday 27 August, to learn more about Phase Two of the UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), which opens for applications on 26 August 2026.