Arts Council England has opened its new Music Creators Growth Fund, offering grants of £10,000 to £20,000 to established artists, bands, DJs, producers, composers and artist collectives with at least three years of track record. The first application window runs October 1-29, 2026, with decisions expected December 22.
The money can go toward recording and releasing new music, domestic touring, early-stage international development, business skills training or gear, though equipment purchases are capped at 25% of the budget. Applicants must also bring at least 25% of the total project cost as cash match funding.
A second round opens January 6 to February 3, 2027. The fund is part of Arts Council England's £45 million Music Growth Package, backed by UK Government and National Lottery money.
Ghost producers releasing under their own name with three years of output should check eligibility before the window opens.