Liverpool’s flagship music talent development initiative is set to build on more than a decade of success as LIMF Academy launches its 2026-27 programme, featuring new opportunities for emerging artists and a special anniversary celebration.
Recognised as one of the UK’s leading artist development programmes, LIMF Academy has spent more than 10 years supporting music creators across the Liverpool City Region, helping them develop sustainable careers through a combination of funding, mentoring, industry access and live performance opportunities.
Since launching in 2014, the Academy has worked with more than 80 core artists and engaged over 4,500 music creators, delivering more than 220 workshops and drawing on the expertise of more than 100 industry specialists. The programme has helped nurture a host of successful artists including Jalen N’gonda, Michael Aldag, XamVolo, Ni Maxine, KOJ, Tonia, The Kowloons and DJ Hannah Lynch of Girls Don’t Sync.
The impact of the Academy continues to be felt across the music industry, with many alumni going on to secure label and distribution deals, receive national recognition, and build international audiences.
As Liverpool continues to strengthen its reputation as a UNESCO City of Music, the Academy remains a vital part of the region’s music ecosystem, creating opportunities for emerging artists and helping to break down barriers to a career in the industry.
The 2026-27 programme will be delivered through three distinct strands designed to support talent at different stages of development.
The LIMF Academy Rise Programme will provide intensive support for three Liverpool City Region music creators. Participants will receive grant funding, mentoring from leading creatives, coaching from Basil Reynolds, bespoke industry development days, showcase opportunities and tailored support to help progress their careers.
The Academy will also deliver YES WE ARE! Part II, a collaborative project supporting 12 female songwriters, musicians and producers from across the Liverpool City Region. Delivered in partnership with the Ivors Academy Trust and supported by PPL Giving, the programme will see participants work together in a Liverpool studio before taking part in a bespoke industry day in London and showcasing their work at a live event in Liverpool.
Completing the programme is LIMF Academy Orchestrated, a special project marking its 10-year anniversary. The initiative will bring together four Academy alumni and the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company session band and orchestra for a unique performance featuring original material and specially commissioned arrangements by composer Katie Chatburn.
The anniversary project will celebrate the achievements of the Academy and the artists who have helped shape its reputation over the past decade.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “For more than a decade, LIMF Academy has helped bridge the gap between grassroots creativity and the music industry, giving talented artists from the Liverpool City Region access to the networks, opportunities, and expertise they need to build sustainable careers.
“What makes the Academy so special is its commitment to championing diverse and under-represented voices while proving that world-class artist development doesn’t have to be centred in London. It has become a nationally recognised model for nurturing talent and helping artists take the next step in their careers.
“The 2026-27 programme builds on that legacy. By continuing to invest in emerging musicians, songwriters, and producers, we’re ensuring the Liverpool City Region remains at the forefront of music innovation, creativity and opportunity, supporting the next generation of artists to fulfil their potential and showcase their talent on a regional, national and international stage.”
- Applications for the LIMF Academy Rise Programme are open until 6pm on Friday 30 October 2026 at https://www.limfacademy.com/portfolio/applications-for-the-26-27-limf-academy-rise-programme-are-now-open/.
