Youth Music Trailblazer Fund Now Open for Applications

VCSE organisations working with children and young people through music have an exciting funding opportunity to explore. Youth Music’s Trailblazer Fund is now accepting applications from constituted, UK‑based organisations delivering projects in England that help young people (aged 0–25) make, learn or earn in music.

The fund is designed to support young people who face barriers to accessing music because of who they are, where they live or what they are going through. Whether you want to test a new idea, strengthen an existing grassroots programme or challenge the status quo, Trailblazer offers flexible support to help you make it happen.

What the Fund Offers

Two levels of grants are available:

• £2,000 to £15,000 for organisations less than one year old  
• £2,000 to £30,000 for organisations more than one year old  

Projects must run for 6–24 months, including planning and set‑up time.

What Types of Projects Are Eligible?

Projects must enable children and young people to:

• Make music – in any form, from informal music‑making with friends to structured sessions
• Learn about music – including skills development, training or education  
• Earn in music – such as routes into the music industry or creative employment  

To be eligible, projects must also:

• Engage young people who face barriers to music  
• Be designed or co‑designed with the young people involved  
• Include built‑in reflection and adaptation throughout delivery  

Funding Themes

Projects must align with at least one of Youth Music’s six priority themes:

1. Early Years (0–5) – supporting children who face barriers to early music‑making  

2. Disabled, d/Deaf and neurodivergent young people (0–25) – ensuring equitable access and progression  

3. Young adults (16–25) – supporting musical progression and wider personal/social outcomes  

4. Youth justice – for young people who are, have been, or are at risk of involvement in the youth justice system  

5. Young people facing barriers – due to characteristics, life circumstances or location  

6. Organisations and workforce – strengthening inclusive music‑making practice across the sector  

Who Is Prioritised?

Youth Music particularly welcomes applications from:

• Small organisations with limited resources  
• Groups supporting young people experiencing significant barriers  
• Established organisations looking to innovate or test new approaches  

Deadline

Applications close on 10 April 2026 at 17:00.

Organisations are encouraged to begin planning early, especially if co‑designing with young people or trialling new approaches.

For more information and to apply Click here