Applications are now open for the third round of the UD Incubator Programme, running from Sept 2024 – May 2025.
Photo: Joey Hoang
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.
Photo: Myles J Burrell
Over a period of 9 months, 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.
Whether you create grime, rap, R&B, jazz, hip-hop or drill, we are always supporting the talent of tomorrow. Apply now to take your artistry to the next level.
Photo: Joey Hoang
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
→ Access to financial investment
→ A free membership with Talent House to access studios, rehearsal space and music industry events.
→ Hot desking at the Talent House
→ Financial investment & support
Photo: Vincent Dolman for UD
Who should apply?
→ Applicants aged 18-25
→ Independent artists representative of Black music genres/ making music of Black origin
→ Must be from and currently living in London
→ Independent artist (no label or established team yet)
→ Those not in full time employment
→ Artists with a track record with 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.
Performing at TGE was really good and I think it was beneficial for a few reasons… I know some people from the industry were in the crowd and having the team from UD there including the other artists performing helped directly with the atmosphere in the crowd and helping me feel more comfortable to perform in that setting. I’m grateful for being given the opportunity.” Saiming, Incubator Programme 2023
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 be asked to clarify your commitments in the application.
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.
Got any questions? Please email incubator@udmusic.org
The deadline for applications is 9am on 26th August 2024.
APPLY HERE >> INCUBATOR PROGRAMME 2024/25
Click HERE to see more of what went down on the 2024 Incubator Programme, starring Zuko Rosemeid, J2, MARACHÉ, Skye, Izzy Withers, Charlotte Dowsson, TayoLoxs, Allyson, Skee & Olympia Vitalis.
