Apply for the 2026 Next Steps Cohort
Applications now open
Join a community of emerging musicians from across the North East.
Next Steps brings together a cohort of artists, producers, songwriters and bands aged 18–25, offering mentoring, development funding and a community of musicians to help you take your next step in music.
Each year, we support seven musicians with a tailored package of support worth up to £1,000, alongside one-to-one mentoring, workshops and opportunities to learn from and alongside other artists.
More than a funding programme, Next Steps is a community. Previous participants have collaborated on new music, shared opportunities, supported one another's releases and remained involved long after their funded year ended.
Previous Next Steps artists have used the programme to release new music, develop live shows, access industry mentoring, build audiences, connect with collaborators and explore new creative directions. Artists from previous cohorts have gone on to secure national radio play, management and distribution support, and perform at larger venues and festivals.
Your next step might look completely different, and that is fine. Whether you're preparing your first release, developing a live show, building your confidence or figuring out what comes next, we'd love to hear from you.
What's Included?
A tailored development package worth up to £1,000
One-to-one mentoring
Workshops and development sessions shaped by the cohort
Opportunities to connect with artists and industry professionals
Membership of the wider Next Steps community
Who Can Apply?
You must:
Be aged 18–25
Live, work or study in the North East of England
Have a clear idea of what you'd like to develop next
Be willing to engage with mentoring, workshops and the wider cohort
Applications are welcome from artists working in any genre.
Key Dates
Applications open: 23 June 2026
Applications close: 17 July 2026
Programme delivery: September 2026 – February 2027
Ready to Apply?
Before applying, please read the full guidance and FAQs, which include eligibility criteria, application questions and further information about the programme.
Any other questions, email eddie@wemakeculture.co.uk.
