MMF and YouTube Music Launch Fifth Accelerator Programme for Music Managers

The Music Managers Forum (MMF) and YouTube Music are partnering again and have opened applications in the fifth year of their Accelerator Programme.

The professional development programme is tailored towards music managers who work with artists, songwriters, DJs and producers. As well as expert educational training, financial support sees applicants applying for grants that range up to £15,000.

Those wishing to apply for the 2023 Accelerator have until the 24th October to do so — full submission details can be found at www.themmf.net/accelerator.

Speaking of the impact of the initiative that first launched in 2019, Paul Bonham, professional development director, MMF, said:

“The impacts of Accelerator are already impressively far-reaching. By next year, we will have supported more than 100 managers, enabling them to build the music businesses of tomorrow and help hundreds more artists, songwriters and producers to thrive. They have also greatly informed and enhanced the MMF. I’m proud of every one of them, and enormously grateful for the continued support from YouTube Music, Arts Council England, Creative Scotland and the SMIA.”

In line with the programme’s diversity efforts, by 2023, the programme will have supported more than 100 managers from across the UK — with 40% of participants from nations and regions outside of London, 43% from Black or ethnic backgrounds and 44% women or gender minorities.

Some of the alumni have gone on to manage highly successful acts that include Joy Crookes, Wes Nelson, PinkPantheress, Joy Anonymous, Moses Boyd, Eliza Rose, ENNY, Nafe Smallz, Squid, Joesef, Steam Down, Shygirl, and Dry Cleaning, among many others.

The Accelerator’s past and present participants all remain active in music management, despite the effects of the pandemic on the music industry.

Alongside YouTube Music, further support comes from Arts Council England, Creative Scotland and the Scottish Music Industry Association.

Lizzzie Dickson, head of label relations, YouTube Music, said:

“We couldn’t be more proud to be embarking on our fifth year in partnership with the MMF on the Accelerator Programme. The continued success of this programme is a testament to the achievements of all the managers we have supported, whose innovations and skills are shaping the modern music business. We are so excited to see what the future holds for this next cohort.”

“The Accelerator sessions have been incredible,” Gina Akers, Accelerator 2022 participant said. “It's extremely reassuring to no longer feel 'alone' as a manager, and making that connection with other managers is so helpful.”