For musicians in the UK, securing funding can be a challenge. While music is all about the art, finances are the key to bringing your creative visions to life.

Compared to the rest of Europe, the UK has the lowest level of funding for arts such as music. Fortunately, there is a wealth of funding opportunities tailored specifically to musicians and creators.

This guide outlines some of the most prominent sources of funding, providing insights to help you navigate your options.

The Importance of Funding for Music Projects

With funding secured, you can focus on what matters most: creating and performing. Without it, financial barriers can limit opportunities for recording, collaborating or even accessing training and development.

From small-scale projects to ambitious international showcases, financial support ensures that talent and creativity are not hindered by budget constraints.

When cultivating your career in the UK, you can access funding sources like grants offered by the Arts Council England and targeted support from foundations like PRS and Help Musicians UK.

Arts Council England

This is one of the most significant sources of funding for arts and culture in the country.

• National Lottery Project Grants: Providing funding between £1,000 and £100,000, this grant supports music-related activities, including live performances, community projects and creative commissions.
• Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP): Designed for creative growth, this programme offers grants between £2,000 and £12,000. It’s ideal for musicians looking to explore new directions or invest in professional development.

Applications to both sources require a clear, detailed project plan that outlines your vision and its potential impact.

PRS Foundation

The PRS Foundation is dedicated to supporting music creators from different backgrounds and genres.

• Open Fund For Music Creators: Songwriters, composers, bands and producers can find support for recording, live performances and marketing.
• Women Make Music: Aimed at addressing gender inequality in music, this programme supports female and gender-diverse musicians with funding for a wide range of projects.
• International Showcase Fund: If you’re taking your music abroad, this fund helps cover the costs of international performances.

Help Musicians UK

Help Musicians UK offers a variety of funding opportunities to support artists at different stages of their careers.

• Music-led Creative Collaboration: This fund focuses on collaborative projects, helping musicians work with others to create something new and innovative.
• Recording and Releasing: Covering the costs of recording, production and release, this fund is invaluable for musicians preparing to launch new material.
• Develop Your Skills: Supporting personal growth, this fund can help with training, masterclasses or mentoring opportunities.

Help Musicians UK also provides genre-specific support, with initiatives for jazz, hip-hop, grime, R&B, soul and more.