How emerging Sunderland musicians and artists can apply for £1,000 bursaries

Applications are now open for seven bursaries of up to £1,000 which will support seven musicians, artists, producers, songwriters and bands aged 18–25 with tailored development packages.

Successful applicants will also receive mentoring, workshops, industry connections and access to a growing community of fellow musicians as part of the Next Steps programme.

The development programme is run by Sunderland-based We Make Culture and since launching in 2023, Next Steps has supported 20 emerging artists from across the region.

Participants have released 14 singles, secured five distribution deals and gained airplay on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 6 Music, demonstrating the programme's growing impact on the North East music scene.

The programme is designed to support artists at a range of stages in their development.

Applicants do not need to have released music professionally but should be able to identify a clear next step for their music and explain how the programme could help them achieve it.

Eddie Scott, Programme Lead for Next Steps, said: "There is incredible musical talent across the North East, but building a career in music can often feel isolating and difficult to navigate.

"Next Steps combines funding, mentoring and community, helping artists access the knowledge, opportunities and connections that can make a real difference at a crucial stage in their development.

"We've seen participants release their first records, secure industry opportunities and build lasting creative networks, but just as importantly we've seen them grow in confidence and belief in what they're capable of achieving."

One previous participant, singer-songwriter Eddie Doyle, credits the programme with helping transform her career.

"Next Steps funded and guided me through the release of my debut EP. Since then I've received support from BBC Radio 6 Music, been approached by publishing companies and sold out my biggest headline show to date.

"More than anything, the programme gave me confidence in my music and helped turn something I'd dreamed about for years into a reality. I'd recommend it to any young musician."

Next Steps is part of the PRS Foundation Talent Development Network, a UK-wide network of organisations supporting talented and ambitious music creators.

How to apply

Successful applicants will receive a tailored development package that may include mentoring, studio time, specialist support, marketing, training, travel and other agreed development activities, alongside a programme of workshops shaped by the interests and needs of the cohort.

Applications are open from 23 June until 17 July 2026, with the programme running between August 2026 and February 2027.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.wemakeculture.co.uk/opportunities or follow We Make Culture on socials.