The GM Business Growth Hub is excited to announce the launch of its upcoming cohort under the Create Growth Programme to support local music venues in Greater Manchester. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the creative industries in Greater Manchester, with a particular focus on the music sector. 

Based on a recent report by the Music Venues Trust, four out of ten grassroots music venues are operating at a loss. Tailored support for specific music industry challenges, the Create Growth Programme aims to support these venues by helping them test new ideas, diversify their activities, and develop sustainable business models to generate more revenue.  

Launching in late May, the new cohort will provide tailored support to rehearsal and recording studios, venues, and festival/live music producers. Participants will benefit from 1-2-1 support sessions with our business advisor with in-depth industry knowledge, peer-to-peer learning, and networking opportunities. In addition, they will also have the fully funded pass to join the first-ever SXSW London as part of a Greater Manchester delegation and the unique opportunity to connect with industrial counterparts from Austin, Texas, US, where SXSW began in 1987. 

“Greater Manchester has a rich and storied history in music, from iconic bands like The Smiths and Oasis to our vibrant grassroots venues,” said Becki Coen, Digital, Creative and Technology (DCT) Programme Manager at GM Business Growth Hub. “The Create Growth Programme’s new cohort is designed to build on this legacy by providing tailored support to local music venues. This initiative will help them innovate, diversify, and thrive in today’s competitive landscape, ensuring our music scene continues flourishing for years.” 

In January, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) announced a massive support package to the UK’s creative industries, which included £2.5 million for the Supporting Grassroots Music Fund and £7 million for the UK Global Screen Fund. Renowned for its vast and deep creative section, Greater Manchester has been identified as one of the priority regions for the creative industries, and the government has also committed additional funding to ensure sustained growth in the sector for years. 

During a successful trade mission to the SXSW held in Austin, Texas, Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, announced the launch of the Greater Manchester Music Export Office. This initiative will enable local businesses to leverage music connections and exchanges with Austin as part of the Friendship Cities agreement to foster international collaboration and promote Greater Manchester’s dynamic music scene.  

Following the SXSW in Austin, Texas, for the first time, SXSW London will be held from the 2nd to the 7th of June, serving as a platform for the music industry in the UK to showcase their creativity and talent to the international audience. With a music industry delegation from Austin, Texas to join the event, SXSW London will provide unique opportunities for networking and collaboration between the US and the UK. 

Interested parties can apply to join the cohort on the website below: 

GM Business Growth Hub | Create Growth