Sixty-eight independent UK music acts have been awarded a total of £1.4 million in funding to help elevate British talent on the global stage. The investment aims to raise the international profile of UK artists, expand their global fanbases, drive revenue, and contribute to economic growth across the country. The funding comes at a crucial time for the music industry, which is navigating both the opportunities and challenges created by the streaming era.
Streaming has transformed access to music worldwide, offering artists unprecedented global reach while intensifying competition. Although UK acts account for around 8–9% of global streams, this figure has dipped below the recent average of approximately 10%, highlighting the need for targeted support. The funding is designed to help British artists compete effectively in an increasingly crowded international marketplace.
The Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS) plays a central role in this effort, offering grants ranging from £5,000 to £50,000 to independent artists and companies ready to break into overseas markets after achieving domestic success. Over 23 funding rounds, the scheme has supported more than 522 British artists and delivered an estimated £73.5 million in financial returns to the UK economy, demonstrating its long-term value and impact.
This year’s recipients include a diverse range of artists such as Nina Nesbitt, Black Country, New Road, Dry Cleaning, The Snuts, Wes Nelson and The Wellermen. The funding will support international touring, promotion, and market expansion, helping artists overcome the rising costs and financial barriers associated with building global careers.
Industry and government leaders have highlighted the scheme as both a cultural and economic success. The UK remains the third largest music market in the world and the biggest in Europe, as well as the second largest exporter of recorded music after the United States. Officials emphasize that supporting a broad diversity of talent from across the UK is essential to maintaining this global standing. Around two-thirds of the latest MEGS recipients are originally from outside London, reinforcing efforts to strengthen regional music ecosystems nationwide.
According to industry estimates, every £1 invested through MEGS generates approximately £14 in economic return, alongside significant cultural benefits. Past recipients have gone on to achieve major award nominations and wins, including BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize successes, while amassing hundreds of millions of global streams. The latest cohort of 68 artists is expected to build on this legacy, using the funding as a launchpad to expand internationally, reach new audiences, and secure long-term global success.
