The Step Up Fund, powered by Amazon Music, is the FAC’s annual grant programme for independent artists. Step Up provides financial support for ten artists’ projects, with grants of up to £8,000 as well as a broader package of benefits. Step Up aims to boost the creative development of talented artists, acknowledging the financial and structural challenges they face at this particular stage of their careers.

Now in its fourth year, the Step Up Fund has provided grants to 40 amazing artists. Find out about all previous awardees below and sign up for our PRO membership to hear when applications open for Step Up 2026.

We are thrilled to announce the Step Up Fund 2025 awardees!

Step Up Fund 2025 was awarded to ten hugely talented recipients: 4am Kru, Arz, Balancing Act, BINA., Crae Wolf, Edbl, Ellie Dixon, Jadu Heart, Mellina Tey and Namesbliss.

Click on each artist below to find out more!

Step Up Fund 2024 was awarded to ten hugely talented recipients: Azekel, BEKA, Blair Davie, Dirty Nice, Hana Lili, Lime Garden, Olive Jones, ShaSimone, SOFY and unpeople.

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Step Up Fund 2023 was awarded to twelve hugely talented recipients: Amahla, Amie Blu, Aziya, B-ahwe, Calva Louise, Chalk, Declan Welsh and The Decadent West, Graft, Jalen Ngonda, Nix Northwest, Tara Lily and twst.

Click on each artist below to find out more!

Step Up Fund 2022 was awarded to nine hugely talented recipients: Daniel Casimir, Friedberg, LVRA, Joel Culpepper, Elkka, nineteen97, Cherise, Deyah and VUKOVI..

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Making an impact as an artist in a crowded field is always a challenge, however, the unprecedented impact of the ongoing cost of living crisis has worsened an already challenging landscape. Step Up aims to help awardees overcome some of these challenges. Artists can apply for the Step Up Fund for support on any projects related to their artist career, including recording, releasing, content creation marketing and tour support.