Universal Music UK Sound Foundation
Grants are available to support young people’s access to music education, funding musical instruments, equipment, and certain training opportunities.
Eligible Organisations
Schools, teachers, and individuals in full-time education in the UK can apply. Bursary colleges listed on the UMUKSF website may also accept applications directly, and eligible applicants for the Decca Bursary include individuals and schools focused on classical music tuition and resources.
Suitable Projects
Grants can be used for purchasing or upgrading musical instruments and equipment, hosting musical workshops for schools, and funding one-off music training courses for teachers. The Decca Bursary supports classical music projects such as ensembles, orchestras, tuition, and workshops.
Application Process
An application form can be downloaded from the Universal Music UK Sound Foundation website.
All applications must include a reference from a music teacher (or headteacher endorsement for teacher funding), and applicants should prepare all supporting documents before submission. Applications are final once submitted, and additional information requires a new form.
Important Dates
Funding is awarded three times a year; applications must be submitted by 1pm on 27th February 2026. Other funding rounds generally open in April (for offers in September) and August (for offers at the end of January). Exact deadlines for each round are available on the website.
Funding Range
Individual, school, and teacher grants are capped at £1,500 per award, and Decca Bursary amounts vary depending on classical music-related costs. Schools may apply for up to £1,000 per project.
