UK’s Music Export Growth Scheme allocates £1.6 million to support 58 independent artists
The BPI has announced the latest round of funding to help 58 UK independent artists expand their global presence.
Another round of funding is being shared out to 58 independent artists, courtesy of the UK’s Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS). MEGS is a crucial initiative designed to support small-to-medium-sized independent UK music companies in building their artists’ international profiles. Developed and administered by the BPI, the scheme is a collaboration between the UK government’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), and the UK recorded music industry, which provides an average of 64% of total investment.
This latest round of funding will support a diverse group of artists, including Nubiyan Twist, Wunderhorse, corto.alto, Far Caspian, Jadu Heart, and Fat Dog, among others, as they look to expand their audiences abroad.
Since its inception over a decade ago, MEGS has played a vital role in helping independent UK artists break into international markets. The scheme has supported more than 450 artists, including Dave, Rina Sawayama, Self Esteem, Jungle, Young Fathers, Kae Tempest, and Mercury Prize winners Ezra Collective.
To date, MEGS has allocated over £7.9 million in grants, generating an estimated £73.5 million for the UK economy—a return on investment of nearly £14 for every £1 received from the government. In 2023 alone, artists supported by MEGS, such as Beabadoobee, Dave, Bicep, and Wolf Alice, collectively amassed over 100 million global streams.
While British music remains among the world’s most influential, the industry faces intensifying global competition and rising international touring costs. These challenges make it increasingly difficult for independent artists and UK SMEs to afford the marketing and promotional efforts necessary to build international success. MEGS provides vital financial support to overcome these barriers, ensuring that emerging UK talent has the opportunity to compete on the global stage.
Sophie Jones, BPI’s Chief Strategy Officer, highlights the scheme’s impact:
“At a time where new acts face increasing global competition, the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS) is needed more than ever to enable the next generation of British talent to reach international audiences and grow their profile. It is a genuine game-changer for the artists supported through the scheme, a critical resource for the UK’s burgeoning independent sector, and a proven financial success with a significant return on investment and boost to exports.”
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy reaffirms the government’s commitment:
“The Music Export Growth Scheme has helped so many of our talented homegrown artists launch their careers internationally. As part of our Plan for Change, we are supporting our creative industries to reach their full potential, including through this latest round of funding, which will help the next generation of artists to tour abroad, market themselves to new audiences and showcase the best of British culture and creativity to the world.”
With funding secured through the 2025/26 financial year, MEGS remains a crucial resource for independent artists aiming to grow internationally. As UK musicians continue to navigate a competitive global market, initiatives like MEGS provide essential support in ensuring British music remains a dominant force worldwide.