News

Arts Council England adds support to the Accelerator Programme for Music Managers

30 October 2018

MUSIC MANAGERS IN ENGLAND & SCOTLAND CAN APPLY FOR GRANTS UP TO £15,000

FIRST STAGE APPLICATION DEADLINE CLOSES AT MIDNIGHT TOMORROW (31st OCTOBER)

The Music Managers Forum (MMF) is delighted to announce that Arts Council England is adding financial support to the Accelerator Programme for Music Managers, the first ever independent funding programme for music managers launched in partnership with YouTube Music.

Arts Council’s backing will underpin all educational and training aspects of the initiative, enabling progressive managers to benefit from expert guidance from the programme’s delivery partners CMU Insights and Music Ally, as well as networking sessions with companies including Harbottle & Lewis, Simons Muirhead & Burton, Simkins LLP, Sheridans, SRLV Accountants and Music Insurance Brokers.

Aiming to address the financial uncertainty faced by independent music managers, Accelerator is offering grants of up to £15,000 for individuals living in England and Scotland who are looking to make the leap into full-time music management with their own company.

The programme is also backed by the Scottish Music Industry Association, and is open to those managing an artist, songwriter or producer with a track record of proven income.
Full details can be found at: https://themmf.net/accelerator/. To make the application process as quick and simple as possible, submissions must be made via online video.

The first stage deadline is midnight tomorrow, Wednesday October 31st. 

Fiona McGugan, General Manager, MMF, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to have Arts Council England’s backing for Accelerator. As well as up to £15,000 in funding, the programme’s education and training components are absolutely vital and will enable upcoming music managers to benefit from expert guidance from some of the most respected names in the business.

“I am delighted to say that we’ve already had a really strong response, but anyone thinking of applying should definitely not hesitate. There is just over 24 hours to send in your submission video, and the clock is ticking!”

Claire Mera-Nelson, Director of Music and London, Arts Council England, said:
“Music Managers are vital to this industry, and the Accelerator Programme is doing crucial work – not only through funding individuals, but enabling them to participate in education and training essential to their role. The Arts Council is thrilled to support this excellent programme, and I personally look forward to witnessing how the programme will play a part in the story of these Music Managers of the future.”

Read also...

MMF Board Election 2025: Meet The Candidates

20/08/2025

Nominations have now closed for the MMF board election 2025. This year we have four amazing managers nominated and as there are four seats available they are uncontested and will be appointed via an approval vote at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 16th September 2025.

Find out more

The Annual MMF Summit – Sponsored by Sound Royalties

11/08/2025

MMF's Managers Summit 2025 edition promises to be extra special, joining the dots on the changing dynamics of music management - covering value, growth & finance.

Find out more

Reflecting on Our Membership

05/08/2025

How we’re learning from you to build a stronger, more tailored community for music managers at every stage.

Find out more

Manager Spotlight: Steph Van Spronsen

31/07/2025

The manager spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers.⁠ This week in the spotlight is Steph Van Spronsen!

Find out more
Back to Top

You don't have credit card details available. You will be redirected to update payment method page. Click OK to continue.