What is the Incubator Programme?
Are you under 25, living in London and an independent artist making music of Black origin? Our Incubator Programme, a bespoke talent and career development opportunity, is designed to help you take your artistry to the next level.
The aim? To develop the creative and business skills for talented, independent musicians emerging in the music industry. A talent and career development opportunity for 10 exceptional independent artists, making music of Black origin.
The programme includes:
→ Free studio time
→ Songwriting Camp led by established creatives at the UD Talent House studios
→ Extensive industry bootcamp covering music law, publishing, major and indie labels, distribution, A&R, live music and digital marketing
→ Mentoring & coaching by industry professionals
→ Showcasing opportunities
→ A free membership with Talent House to access studios, rehearsal space and music industry events.
→ Hot desking at the Talent House
→ Financial investment & support
Who should apply?
→ Applicants aged 18-25
→ Independent artists (with no label or established team yet) representative of Black music genres/ making music of Black origin
→ Must be from and currently living in London
→ Those not in full time employment
→ Those with a track record of starting to release music, showing commitment to an artist project i.e. one or more of the following – press coverage, played a support or small headline show/ experience performing live, has music out on streaming platforms.
Commitment/ Expectations:
Please only apply if you are committed to pushing your artist career as a priority
Those who work full-time should consider before applying as they may not be able to get the best out of the project.
You will need to maintain professional and regular contact with your Programme Manager and any UD staff who are working on aspects of the incubator.
Any content created with UD is to be utilised and promoted in line with your timeline and strategy for releases.
About:
A bespoke talent and career development opportunity for 10 exceptional independent artists making music of Black origin, the UD Incubator Programme was created to help facilitate the transition from an educational or vocational training environment towards the commercial market or professional workplace.
Over a period of 7 months (Sept-Mar), 10 high-reaching artists are offered life-changing skills development, one-to-one mentoring and access to investment. You’ll also receive specialist input on your repertoire, brand and learn about routes to the market from industry professionals. We will equip participants to succeed in the music industry both in the UK & overseas.
Programme alumni include Dia Day, Rio Sterling, Isabelle Mettle, Saiming, Allyson, J2, Izzy Withers, MARACHÉ, Olympia Vitalis, Skee, TayoLoxs, Skye, Zuko Rosemeid, Charlotte Dowsson, Arinola, Emiko, Mar!k and more.
Apply now to take your artistry to the next level.
Interested in applying for the 2026/27 Incubator Programme?
CLICK HERE!
Deadline to apply: 6pm on 10th August 2026.
Got any questions? Please email incubator@udmusic.org.
