The BPI has announced details of the 25th round of Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS) funding.
Developed and administered by the BPI, the funding scheme boosts music exports by supporting small-to-medium-sized, independent UK companies as they build the commercial profile of their artists in key markets internationally.
The initiative is a partnership between industry and the UK government with joint funding received from the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) and the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) alongside investment from the UK recorded music industry.
The latest £800,000 funding round has been distributed to support 29 UK acts from a range of genres and backgrounds.
MEGS is a vital springboard for independent artists and businesses looking to reach global audiences
Dr Jo Twist OBE, BPI
Artists receiving support include 163 Margs, Alex Spencer, BINA., Boston Manor, Bury Tomorrow, caroline, Chinchilla, Elder Island, Fat Dog, Grandmas House, Ibibio Sound Machine, Jerub, Joshua Idehen, Koven, Lime Garden, Lizzie Berchie, Los Bitchos, Mary In The Junkyard, Pigeon, Qendresa, Rhumba Club, Seb Lowe, The Guest List, The K’s, The Lathums, The Lottery Winners, The Meffs, The Royston Club and Tom Skinner.
“MEGS is a vital springboard for independent artists and businesses looking to reach global audiences, and a powerful example of what can be achieved when the UK government and recorded music industry come together to support the next generation of British talent on the world stage," said BPI CEO Dr Jo Twist OBE.
MEGS has now invested over £10 million in British music, leading to over £81.5m in financial return to the UK economy and a return on investment from completed rounds of nearly £14 for every £1 received from government.
To date, the scheme has supported the international careers of more than 540 British artists including Rina Sawayama, Self Esteem, Jungle, Young Fathers, Kae Tempest, Dave, Ezra Collective and Wolf Alice.
Some of our most notable talent was helped onto a global stage through the Music Export Growth Scheme – from Wolf Alice and Self Esteem, to Jungle and Dave
Ian Murray, minister of state for DCMS
Jonathan Reynolds, secretary of state for business, innovation, science and trade, said: “The UK has a world-class music sector, and I’m determined to make sure this continues to play a crucial role in our economy.
“This scheme has already supported Mercury Prize and BRIT Award-winning artists and underlines our commitment to help independent musicians reach new audiences."
Ian Murray, minister of state for DCMS, added: “This country consistently punches above its weight in music, producing so many of the pioneering artists loved around the world. And some of our most notable talent was helped onto a global stage through the Music Export Growth Scheme – from Wolf Alice and Self Esteem to Jungle and Dave.
“In a time where the landscape of music and touring can be challenging for artists, this scheme can be the difference between an artist breaking through or stalling internationally. That’s why we’re backing the sector with Turn It Up, the government’s plan for music, which includes a £45 million Music Growth Package."
Applications for the 26th round of MEGS funding are now open until Monday, September 7 at this link.
PHOTO: Sam Crowston
