New grant launched to support grassroots radio stations and record stores in the UK

A new grant has been launched in the UK supporting grassroots radio stations and record stores who encourage diversity and inclusion in the music industry.

The True Music Grant set up by Ballantine’s True Music and London’s Soho Radio is due to award one emerging independent station and record shop £5000 each as part of the project.

Entries to the grant are now open, encouraging those who support under-represented communities in the UK to apply. Submissions for entry close on May 26.

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A board of judges is set to select two winners in the coming months who will receive £5000 each, which can go toward a number of projects promoting diversity and inclusion.

Proposals must include a description of where the money will go, and how the grant could support the organisation and create a positive change in its community.

"For almost 10 years, Ballantine’s True Music has been on a mission to champion independent music giving our global stages to its brightest emerging talent & showcasing the vibrant communities they’re part of," a representative tells Mixmag.

"Working alongside a panel of judges from within the music industry, we’re looking to identify and support independent radio stations and record stores that are creating a positive impact and making music more accessible within their local communities."

In March, Mixmag spoke to a number of UK radio stations on how the cost of living crisis is affecting radio. A handful of seminal stations across the UK have closed in recent months due to rising costs, including Bristol’s SWU.FM, Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide FM, and more.

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Several grants supporting UK music have launched since the start of 2023. Arts Council England are set to give £1.5 million in funding to grassroots music venues this September with the return of The National Lottery Project Grants.

Elsewhere, Youth Music has announced the latest round of funding as part of its NextGen Fund helping emerging artists develop skills required to get into the music industry.

The fund supports those aged 18 to 25 looking to start their careers in production, A&R, and beyond with grants up to £2,500.

Apply to Ballantine’s True Music x Soho Radio’s True Music Grant here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter