Young musicians from across the North East are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 edition of Next Steps, We Make Culture’s artist development programme, delivered through the PRS Foundation Talent Development Network.
Celebrating its fourth year, the programme will select seven emerging musicians, producers, songwriters, artists and bands aged 18–25 to receive personalised development support worth up to £1,000.
Participants will also benefit from one-to-one mentoring, industry-led workshops, networking opportunities and access to a growing community of fellow artists.
Since its launch in 2023, Next Steps has supported 20 emerging artists from across the North East.
Alumni have gone on to release 14 singles, secure five distribution deals and receive airplay on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 6 Music, highlighting the programme’s growing role in developing regional talent.
Applicants are not required to have professionally released music but should be able to demonstrate a clear ambition for their next step and explain how the programme will help them achieve it.
Eddie Scott, Programme Lead for Next Steps, commented: “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.”
Each successful applicant will receive a bespoke development package tailored to their goals.
Applications are open from 23rd June to 17th July 2026, with the programme running between August 2026 and February 2027.
For more information or to apply, visit www.wemakeculture.co.uk/opportunities.
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