Supporting Grassroots Music

The Supporting Grassroots Music (SGM) programme, jointly funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and Arts Council England, is designed to strengthen the sustainability of England’s grassroots music sector. This sector – encompassing venues, festivals, promoters, rehearsal and recording studios, and sector bodies – is crucial for developing local and national talent, supporting musicians and music professionals, and growing audiences.

SGM funding supports projects that help artists, bands, and industry professionals transition to sustainable careers, while also supporting audience development and the wider grassroots music ecosystem. Sector bodies working to develop and support the sector are also eligible.

Funding Update – August 2025
Applicants should review the new Supporting Grassroots Music guidance document and downloadable Word application forms before applying. From 1 September 2025, all applications must be submitted by email following the updated process. SGM is no longer part of the National Lottery Project Grants programme.

Impact to Date
The programme builds on insights from the Supporting Grassroots Live Music fund (2019–2023), which supported venues and promoters, ensuring that current funding meets the sector’s needs and strengthens long-term sustainability.

Claire Mera-Nelson, Arts Council England’s Director of Music, explores the continued commitment to supporting grassroots music and the opportunities unlocked by additional DCMS funding.

For enquiries or to request information in an alternative format, Arts Council England is available to assist.

More information and guidance on applying

Share:

Related Posts

Cash4Clubs

The Cash4Clubs programme, funded by Flutter UK & Ireland and delivered by Sported, is offering small grants of £2,000 (€2,000 in Ireland) to support community sports clubs and organisations that engage adults in sport. Since 2008, Cash4Clubs has awarded over

Read More »

Nineveh Charitable Trust

UK based schools and not for profit organisations can apply for funding to the Nineveh Charitable Trust for a broad range of projects and activities that promote a better understanding of the environment and countryside, whilst facilitating improved access, education

Read More »

Business Grants for Young Entrepreneurs Programme

Grants of up to £2,000 are available for young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 to start or expand their own businesses. Provided by SWEF through the Business Grants for Young Entrepreneurs programme, this funding supports young people needing assistance with

Read More »
VODA

Search