Amazon is opening new doors to creative careers across the UK with the launch of its Regional Creatives Fund, offering grants of up to £30,000 to charities that help underserved communities pursue their creative ambitions.
Launching on 8 July, the fund will be available to charities which support individuals break into publishing, music, gaming, film, TV, fashion, advertising, and other creative sectors where diversity and fresh perspectives can drive innovation and change.
In addition to financial support, the Regional Creatives Fund will also use Amazon’s network of creative industry professionals to offer charities pro-bono upskilling programmes--including mentoring, work experience, placement opportunities, and digital training, with support provided by minds from Amazon Music, Prime Video, Amazon Games, and more.
The initiative comes at a crucial time, as recent research from The Sutton Trust reveals that younger adults from working-class backgrounds are four times less likely to work in creative industries compared to their middle-class peers.
“Amazon has been a passionate supporter of Creative Industries in the UK for many years and the Regional Creatives Fund will supercharge that support,” said Paul Firth, Director, Global Music Industry, Amazon Music. "We understand talent is everywhere, but access isn't, and we're working to change that."
Who is eligible for Amazon’s Regional Creatives Fund?
The fund is available for applications from charities that are currently running a programme that focuses on upskilling people from underserved communities for careers in creative industries.
Applications for up to £30,000 can be made by individual organisations that meet eligibility criteria, while consortium applications for up to £100,000 are also available.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: "I want every young person to have the opportunity to build a successful career within the creative industries, which is one of this country's greatest assets.
"Whether it's in film, TV, gaming, fashion or music, we have so much homegrown talent and I am delighted that the Regional Creatives Fund will help shine a spotlight on that right across the country helping people contribute to our national story."
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that the fund will be used to expand or continue an existing, impactful programme, such as music production training, portfolio development, or even placements in game development studios.
Grants will be awarded by an independent judging panel made up of senior leaders from Amazon, The National Theatre, Arts Council England, the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Help Musicians, and Music Minds Matter.
“Creativity is our superpower, and the future of our country depends on talent being nurtured everywhere,” said Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire and RCF Board Member. “This game-changing initiative will help creatives to break down barriers and unleash their potential, no matter their background or circumstances.”
Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee and RCF Board Member added: "The creative industries are one of the UK's greatest success stories, but for too long access to careers in this sector have been limited by social and economic barriers. Amazon's Regional Creatives Fund is exactly the kind of initiative we need
Applications will be assessed across five key areas. Strong proposals will:
- Show energy, optimism, and a clear creative purpose
- Deliver real impact through skills, access, and industry links
- Show a smart, achievable plan with confident delivery
- Amplify underrepresented voices
- Build on existing programmes to grow what’s already working.
Eligible charities can apply for the Regional Creatives Fund here.
You can find out more by clicking the links below:
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