Applications closed
In 2023/24, we undertook a review of the YMI Strengthening Youth Music Fund gathering feedback from previous applicants, end of project reports and YMI evaluations. This review resulted in a refreshed approach to the fund guidance and application questions, that aimed to make the application process more accessible for applicants. While the overall ambitions of the fund remain unchanged, we have:
- Refreshed the purpose of the fund increasing the focus on supporting projects that demonstrate how they will result in a strategic intervention that will strengthen the youth music sector in Scotland.
- Reduced the number of application questions.
- Added questions on Environmental Sustainability and Fair Work in line with Scottish Government requirements.
- Refreshed our approach to monitoring and evaluation that allows applicants to take a more proportionate approach that is appropriate to the size and scale of their project.
The purpose of this fund is not to support project delivery directly with children and young people. If you are looking to apply for a project which focuses on delivery with children and young people, you should instead apply for the YMI Access to Music Making fund.
Eligibility
The Strengthening Youth Music is for organisations and individuals based in Scotland or those who are working to develop the youth music sector in Scotland for the benefit of children and young people of Scotland.
Organisations already in receipt of Regular Funding from Creative Scotland could apply but were required to discuss their intention to apply for funding with their lead officer in the first instance.
For more information on your Local Authority’s YMI programme please check the YMI Formula Fund contact document.
Full details on eligibility can be found in the guidance.
If you have any questions or concerns, our Enquiries Team are here to help - visit our Contact Us page.
Timeline
There will be one deadline for the Strengthening Youth Music fund in 2024/25.
- Guidance available: Thursday 19 September
- Applications opened: 2pm on Thursday 10 October
- Applications closed: 2pm on Tuesday 19 November
- Decisions: February 2025
- Funded activity begins end March 2025
Downloads
Access support
Creative Scotland is committed to offering clear and accessible application processes and programmes that are open to everyone. We have a number of ways we can support you to make your application. Find out more in the guidance.