The Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) has announced the return of the Step Up Fund for a third year. The Fund aims to boost the development of music talent and support independent unsigned artists.
Fund Details
The Step Up Fund, supported by Amazon Music, offers up to 10 independent unsigned artists the chance to secure a funding grant of up to £8,000 to further their music career. Eligible artists must be UK-based, aged 18+, and have released at least three tracks within the last year.
Application Process
- Applications open on Wednesday, 15 May.
- To qualify, artists must have released at least three tracks with a minimum of 15,000 streams each.
- Applications close on 31 May.
- Successful applicants will be decided by a panel of industry professionals and announced in July 2024.
Benefits for Grantees
Successful Step Up Fund grantees will receive a one-year membership with FAC, content creation opportunities with Amazon Music, an Amazon Echo device, and a 12-month Amazon Music subscription.
Artist Testimonials
Jalen Ngonda, a previous Step Up Fund recipient, highlighted the impact of the fund on his career, emphasizing the support it provided for touring and audience building.
David Martin, FAC CEO, expressed the importance of early-stage support for artists in the current music industry landscape.
For more information and to apply, visit the PRS for Music website.
Learn More About The Featured Artists Coalition’s Step Up Fund for Unsigned Artists
The Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) Step Up Fund for Unsigned Artists is a commendable initiative aimed at supporting emerging musicians who are working towards establishing their careers in the music industry. The fund provides financial assistance to artists who are not signed to a record label or management company, enabling them to take their music to the next level and reach a wider audience. This initiative is particularly important in an industry where independent artists often struggle to secure the resources and support needed to advance their careers.
One of the key benefits of the FAC Step Up Fund is that it helps to level the playing field for unsigned artists who may not have access to the same opportunities and resources as their signed counterparts. By providing financial support, the fund allows artists to invest in professional recording, production, and marketing services, giving them the tools they need to compete in an increasingly competitive industry. This can make a significant difference in an artist’s ability to attract attention and build a fan base, ultimately leading to greater success and recognition.
Moreover, the FAC Step Up Fund also offers artists access to mentorship and guidance from established industry professionals, offering valuable insights and support as they navigate the complexities of the music business. This mentorship can be invaluable for artists who may be new to the industry or struggling to find their footing, providing them with the knowledge and expertise they need to make informed decisions and advance their careers. This guidance can help artists to avoid common pitfalls and challenges, setting them up for long-term success in their musical endeavors.
In addition to financial support and mentorship, the FAC Step Up Fund also provides artists with opportunities for exposure and networking within the music industry. By showcasing the work of funded artists at industry events and online platforms, the fund helps to raise awareness of their music and talent, connecting them with industry professionals, fans, and potential collaborators. This exposure can open up new opportunities for artists to expand their reach and connect with key players in the industry, ultimately leading to greater visibility and success.
Furthermore, the FAC Step Up Fund plays a crucial role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the music industry by providing support to artists from underrepresented backgrounds and marginalized communities. By offering financial assistance and resources to artists who may face systemic barriers and discrimination, the fund helps to empower a more diverse range of voices and talents to thrive in the industry. This not only benefits individual artists but also enriches the music landscape as a whole, fostering creathttps://youtu.be/9rpPgsLJcQM?si=y2QKROpZee6u7SMXivity, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Another important aspect of the FAC Step Up Fund is its focus on artist empowerment and independence. By supporting artists who are not signed to record labels or management companies, the fund encourages a spirit of self-reliance and autonomy, enabling artists to retain control over their music, creative vision, and career trajectory. This can be crucial for artists who prioritize artistic integrity and autonomy, allowing them to make decisions that align with their values and goals, rather than being dictated by external forces.
Additionally, the FAC Step Up Fund also serves as a platform for advocacy and representation of unsigned artists within the music industry. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by independent artists, the fund raises awareness of the importance of supporting emerging talent and nurturing a diverse and vibrant music ecosystem. This advocacy can help to shape industry practices and policies in ways that benefit independent artists, ensuring that their contributions are valued and recognized within the broader music community.
The Featured Artists Coalition Step Up Fund for Unsigned Artists is a valuable resource that provides essential support and opportunities to emerging musicians who are navigating the complexities of the music industry. By offering financial assistance, mentorship, exposure, and advocacy, the fund empowers artists to pursue their creative aspirations and build sustainable careers in music. As the industry continues to evolve and diversify, initiatives like the FAC Step Up Fund play a crucial role in fostering a more equitable, inclusive, and vibrant music ecosystem for artists of all backgrounds and genres.
