Rising British music talent is set for a global push after 68 independent UK acts secured a combined £1.4 million in government-backed funding designed to grow international audiences, boost
revenues and strengthen the UK’s music economy.
The funding has been awarded through the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS), a programme aimed at helping UK artists and music companies break into overseas markets once they have established a strong following at home. Individual grants range from £5,000 to £50,000 and are used to support international touring, marketing and promotional campaigns.
The investment comes at a pivotal moment for the industry. While streaming has made music more accessible worldwide, it has also intensified competition. According to industry body BPI, UK artists currently account for around 8–9% of global music streams, slightly down on the 10% average recorded in recent years.
MEGS has become a vital support mechanism for independent acts navigating this landscape. Since its launch, the scheme has backed the international careers of more than 522 British artists. The BPI estimates that across its previous 23 funding rounds, MEGS has already generated an economic return of £73.5 million for the UK.
Among this year’s successful applicants are artists spanning pop, indie and alternative scenes, including Nina Nesbitt, Black Country, New Road, Dry Cleaning, The Snuts, Wes Nelson and The Wellermen.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Streaming has revolutionised access to music for fans worldwide, but it has also created unique challenges for smaller artists and independent labels.
This scheme moves the dial for indie music by funding global tours and promotion, removing the financial hurdles which would otherwise prevent our best home-grown talent from blossoming into international success stories.
Securing MEGS funding is a launchpad that will help artists and labels reach the ears of new fans and follow in the footsteps of past recipients like Ezra Collective and Dave who turned this opportunity into standout global success”.
The funding reinforces the UK’s status as a global music powerhouse. Data from IFPI shows the UK is the third-largest music market in the world and the biggest in Europe. It is also the second-largest exporter of recorded music globally, behind the United States.
Geographic diversity remains a key focus of the scheme. Around two-thirds of this year’s MEGS recipients are based outside London, helping to develop regional labels and accelerate music industry growth across the country.
The cultural and commercial impact is significant. The BPI estimates that for every £1 of government funding, MEGS delivers a £14 economic return. Supported artists have gone on to secure BRIT Award nominations and wins, feature on 19 Mercury Prize shortlists, claim four Album of the Year titles, and rack up hundreds of millions of streams worldwide.
As competition for global listeners intensifies, the latest round of MEGS funding underscores the UK’s commitment to ensuring its next generation of artists can be heard — and succeed — on the world stage.
Sophie Jones, BPI Chief Strategy Officer, said: “In an increasingly competitive global landscape, the Music Export Growth Scheme is a vital springboard for UK artists looking to reach international audiences and build their profiles, and a critical resource for the UK’s SME music businesses and independent sector. It’s also a proven financial success, generating a significant return on investment, and a great example of what can be achieved when industry and Government come together in support of Britain’s world-class music ecosystem.
MEGS alumni have gone on to become BRIT Award and Mercury Prize-winners, chart-toppers and household names. We’re excited to see what the future holds for the 68 fantastic artists supported by this latest round, and grateful to the UK Government for their continued support of the Scheme”.
Black Country, New Road said: “Receiving MEGS has and will help us tour to a high standard during difficult times when the cost of things keep rising and rising. We would like to say thanks”.
The Wellermen said: “We can’t thank the MEGS funding panel enough for their invaluable support. Touring is financially difficult at the best of times, but right now it is harder than ever. Their crucial support means we can hit the road again this March to promote our new 1778 EP in the USA. This will be our 4th tour in the USA, each one meaning we cement and further grow our dedicated fanbase over there”.
Wes Nelson said: “Really excited and grateful to have been awarded a grant by the MEGS team. This grant means I can do my first shows in Europe with my band, something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. Can’t wait to hit the road and spread my music, massive massive thank you to everyone at the MEGS team”.
Nina Nesbitt said: “As an independent artist releasing through my own label, I’m incredibly grateful to receive support from the MEGS board and BPI. I want to thank the board for recognising my vision and the strength of independent artists building internationally from the ground up.
This funding represents an important step in expanding my music overseas and investing strategically in my next campaign. It will enable me to grow internationally, reach new audiences, and continue building a global career on my own terms”. Photo by Stephen McKay, Wikimedia commons.