Music Gateway launches Breakout Artist Programme to champion independent talent in the UK & Ireland
News: 6th October 2025 by Louise Dodgson under Creative & Branding, Live, Media, Music Training & Careers, Recording & Production, Selling & Distributing Your Music
Music Gateway has unveiled the Breakout Artist Programme 2026, a major new initiative designed to spotlight and elevate the next wave of independent talent across the UK and Ireland. With a £20,000 promotional fund at its core, the programme offers one emerging artist the resources and exposure needed to make 2026 a defining year in their career.
The winning artist will receive a £20,000 promotional fund to fuel their releases, gigs, and marketing campaigns, alongside a 12-month promotional strategy covering press, social advertising, and Spotify campaigns. They’ll also gain direct support from Music Gateway’s in-house team of experts, who bring years of experience across distribution, sync, artist development and promotion.
The judging panel brings together a cross-section of industry key players that discover, mentor and nurture artists. The first panellist confirmed is Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, a Music Gateway board member for more than a decade and a long-time champion of emerging talent. Additional panellists will be announced in the coming weeks.
Music Gateway has a proven track record of supporting artists at every stage of their journey; from helping independents land their first editorial playlist, securing interviews with major publications and national radio, through to running full-scale promotional campaigns on behalf of major labels. While the company works globally with artists and labels - the team has a long-standing passion for championing UK talent, having supported artists such as Natalie Shay, Shocka, Natasha Hamilton, Beverley Knight, and Chelji. With the expertise, network, and dedication to back it up, this initiative has the power to change the trajectory of an emerging artist’s career.
How it works:
Submit your music: Independent artists are invited to share their tracks.
Tell your story: Applicants provide a short video outlining their music and future plans.
Panel review: A shortlist will be created, with the winner selected by the industry panel.
Applications are open now and close on 28th October 2025. The winner of Breakout Artist 2026 will be announced later this year, with additional prizes and opportunities unveiled in the weeks ahead. For more information and to apply, visit the Music Gateway website below...
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Music Gateway launches Breakout Artist Programme to elevate the music career of emerging bands and artists
