Closing date - 23:59, 20th January 2025

Please feel free to contact us at artist.development@factoryinternational.org if you require any support in completing your application.

Factory Sounds is our annual programme designed to support and raise the profile of the music industry in Greater Manchester.

Making music in Greater Manchester or working in the industry? Apply to be part of our Factory Sounds 2025 cohort today.

Every year we support 11 extraordinary people working in music. This year we’re increasing this support to 15 talented individuals.

Whether you’re a musician, technician, label, or creative, Factory Sounds is for you. We're particularly interested in supporting the development of people who are underrepresented in the sector.

Want to find our more? Meet our wonderful Factory Sounds alumni here.

Supported by adidas.

How It Works

We’re offering financial support of up to £1,000 for anyone based in Greater Manchester who’s involved in music, whether as a professional or amateur. This includes musicians and DJs, producers and promoters, even label owners and managers. Simply send us a proposal mapping out why you’d like to receive financial support (details are below) and we’ll consider your pitch.

Do you need help to make or complete a recording? Perhaps you’re a label wanting to promote some new releases or you’re looking for support to present a gig or live event. Perhaps a little financial support will go a long way towards giving you the head-space to make new music. Or maybe you just want to buy some equipment. Factory Sounds can provide the support you need.

Successful applicants will receive:

• Peer to peer support through regular meetings with your Factory Sounds cohort and specialist members of the Factory International team, who will help support your artistic development
• Three mentorship sessions with an industry member
• £1000 to support your creative development
• Tailored workshops and other creative opportunities
• Access to a bespoke space for developing music
• The opportunity to perform in the Social as part of our public programme

How to Apply

To apply, simply press the "Apply Here" button at the bottom of your screen and send us a short video and/or fill in the application form (making sure to hit submit when you're done).

FAQs

What does underrepresented mean?

Underrepresented groups are those who have a lack of representation, and consequently less of a voice, in a specific industry or body. For this programme, we’re particularly keen to hear from applicants whose lived experience is currently underrepresented within the UK creative industries, including but not limited to: those from low-income backgrounds, trans and gender diverse people, women, people from the Global Majority, and those who identify as D/deaf, disabled, and/or neurodiverse.