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

The Million Hours Fund

The Million Hours Fund is now open for applications, offering grants of £30,000 to £100,000 to support additional youth work in areas with higher rates of anti-social behaviour. The fund is aimed at helping young people aged 10 to 18,

Read More »

Mobility Foundation Funding

The Motability Foundation is offering a range of grants to UK charities and not-for-profits supporting disabled people with transport and mobility access. Five open funding streams are currently available, with grants ranging from £50,000 to £1 million. The Foundation anticipates

Read More »

The Tree Council – Branching Out Fund

The Tree Council’s Branching Out Fund offers grants of between £250 and £2,500 to support community planting projects across the UK. Funding is available to: Schools Registered charities Constituted community groups Community Interest Companies Tree Warden networks and other eligible

Read More »
VODA

Search