Launchpad Fund 2026 FAQs
Who can apply for Launchpad Funding?
Artists, bands or Wales based record labels (where activity is based on their artists) can apply for Launchpad Funding. You must be over 18 and have a Wales based home address.
If you are an artist signed to a major record label you are unable to apply for the fund.
How much can I apply for?
The fund will be offering awards of up to £2,000 each.
What activity can I apply for?
The fund looks at things that will take your music careers ‘to the next level’. This can be (and is not limited to):
- Studio time
- Album/EP/single campaigns
- PR
- Photoshoots
- Music video shoots
- Collaborative projects
- Mix and mastering
- New instruments/equipment.
The above list is an example of what people have had in the past. Think about why the activity you’re applying for will make a difference to you right now.
What am I not allowed to apply for?
The fund cannot fund anything that cannot safely take place. We cannot fund your time (as wages or loss or earnings). We cannot fund international travel and associated expenses. We cannot fund vehicles.
I’m a student studying outside of Wales, can I apply?
If you live in Wales but are studying elsewhere, we will still accept applications, providing you can prove that you are studying and that your home address is in Wales.
I’ve had Launchpad Funding before. Can I apply?
Successful artists from the last two round of Launchpad Funding (2024/25 and 2025/26) will not be eligible to apply for the funding in 2026. Other than those two rounds, past awardees can apply again.
How do I apply?
Click this link or head to bbc.co.uk/horizons to access the online form hosted by Arts Council Wales. It’s an electronic form with a series of questions and information boxes.
I’ve got some questions about the application form and process, who do I talk to?
We’re unable to provide individual advise for applicants, however if you have an issue or query please email horizons@bbc.co.uk – we try to answer every email but cannot guarantee as the volume of applications is large.
When is the deadline to apply?
We will stop receiving applications at 23:59 on Friday 6th November 2026.
How will my application be assessed?
Each application will be scored by a panel of music industry professionals from Wales and the UK. Applications are scored based on:
• The strength of the music
• Timing and opportunity
• Value for money
• Whether the application will benefit under-supported artists and different audiences.
Every panellist will be required to identify and conflicts of interest and will be unable to provide feedback on these applications.
I’ve been unsuccessful with my application, can I get feedback?
Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback for unsuccessful applicants.
When will I find out if I’ve been successful with my application?
The final panel for decision making will happen in early December 2026. We expect that you should hear back from the team by the end of December 2026.
I’ve been successful with my application, when will I received the funding?
Once we collect all information and assets from successful artists, we expect the funding to get to you in February 2027.
