The Birthplace Fund

Presented by Novo Amor & Beacons Cymru

The Birthplace Fund

Presented by Novo Amor & Beacons Cymru

Why this fund exists

“Music gave me a way to express myself, to connect with people, and to build a life that felt true to who I am. It’s brought me joy, purpose, and community - and I want others to have the same chance.

I created The Birthplace Fund because I know how it feels to be told you don’t have potential. I want to help change that for others - to create more space for creativity, opportunity, and belief, right here in Wales.”

— Ali Lacey (Novo Amor)

In aim of supporting the current and next generation of original music-makers across Wales, The Birthplace Fund offers grants of up to £2,500 each, to ten successful applicants. Whether you're an artist, band, or music producer, this fund is here to give you the time, space and resources to focus on what matters most: your music.

Supporting Emerging Music Creators in Wales

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WHO
CAN APPLY?

WHAT THE FUND CAN SUPPORT

WHAT THE FUND WON'T COVER

You’re eligible if:

You’re aged 18–35 at the time of the application deadline
You reside in Wales (you’ll need to provide proof of address)
You’re a creator of original music — this includes artists, bands, and music producers
You have a UK bank account
If you’re applying as a band, at least 50% of members must be aged 18–35 and all members must reside in Wales

You can apply for a grant to help with a wide range of creative and practical needs, including:

Purchasing studio equipment
Studio services: production, mixing, mastering
Time off work or caregiving to focus on writing, recording, rehearsing, or producing
Developing a new or experimental creative idea
Mentorship to support your work

Please don’t apply for support with:

Touring expenses
Merchandise design & production
Marketing, PR, or plugging campaigns
This fund is dedicated to supporting the creative process, not promotion or sales.

Key Dates
Applications open: June 2, 2025
Deadline to apply: July 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM

APPLY HERE

No match funding required
You do not need to contribute any of your own money or secure match funding to apply. In fact, we encourage applications from those who may not otherwise have the means to fund their projects.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The Process:

Your application will be reviewed by a panel of assessors.

A shortlist will be passed to an expert judging panel.

We’ll assess based on your musical potential, the impact of funding, and how realistic and achievable your project is.

If you’re successful:

You’ll be notified via email or phone.

You’ll need to sign a funding agreement and provide:

Proof of identity

Proof of Welsh residency

UK Bank details

We aim to transfer funds within the month of September 2025 upon completion of paperwork.

We aim to notify all applicants within the month of August 2025.

If you’re not successful:

We’ll notify all applicants, but due to volume, we may not be able to offer individual feedback.

Fairness & Inclusivity

We judge applications solely on artistic merit and creativity. We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds — regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.

Optional equal opportunity questions help us track and improve our efforts toward inclusion.

Applications submitted in the Welsh language or in alternative formats will not be viewed more or less favourably.

Definitions & Eligibility

Welsh Residency

You must provide proof of a current address in Wales — e.g. utility bill, letter. Bands must submit proof for all members.

Age

Applicants must be 18–35 by July 10, 2025. Bands must have at least 50% of members within that age range.

Let The Birthplace Fund help you take the next step in your creative journey.

APPLY HERE

BEACONS
CYMRU

CYMRAEG

The Birthplace Fund