NMEO Opens Four New Funding Programmes for Northern Music Talent

Back in June, four Northern mayors joined forces at SXSW London to launch the UK’s first pan-regional Music Export Office – a landmark new initiative designed to help Northern artists and music businesses reach audiences across the world.

Now, just two months later, the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO) is opening four funding programmes across August and September, supporting artists and music professionals from across the region to access new national and international opportunities.

Through a combination of investment, advocacy, industry connections and tailored support, NMEO is helping Northern talent build sustainable careers while strengthening the wider regional music ecosystem. Taking a place-based approach means the office can respond to the specific strengths, opportunities and challenges of the North’s music sector, while ensuring the cultural and economic benefits of a thriving music industry are retained across the region.

From helping artists and music professionals become export-ready through national touring and showcases, to supporting those ready to take the next step onto the international stage, the four programmes offer practical investment and support at key points in an artist or professional’s career.

The four funding programmes opening across Autumn 2026 are:

International Artist Programme:
Supporting export-ready Northern artists take on international tours and major showcase opportunities, covering essential costs including travel, visas, accommodation and logistics.

International Professional Programme:
Supporting Northern managers, publishers, labels, agents and other music professionals to attend international conferences, trade missions and market meetings, helping build connections and unlock new opportunities overseas.

UK Artist Touring Programme:
Supporting Northern artists overcome the rising costs of UK touring, significant festivals, or domestic showcase events to each new audiences and build the experience and foundations needed for future international growth.

Northern Sound Showcases:
Direct, profile-raising and on-the-ground support, Northern Sound helps selected artists perform at NMEO-curated showcases and connect with international booking agents, festival programmers, labels and media.

Funding applications will begin opening from 26 August 2026. Visit NMEO and follow our social channels to stay up to date with upcoming opportunities, deadlines and application details.