Liverpool City Region to be at the forefront of music innovation

Liverpool City Region Secures £6.75 Million to Lead Music Innovation

The Liverpool City Region has been awarded £6.75 million as a new UKRI Creative Cluster for the music sector, paving the way for it to become a global hub for music research, development, and innovation. The five-year initiative, called MusicFutures, was announced today (Wednesday, November 27) and will be spearheaded by the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU).

This landmark funding, provided by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) on behalf of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aims to strengthen the city’s cultural legacy while driving economic growth in the music sector. By focusing on emerging technologies, talent development, and business innovation, MusicFutures will cement Liverpool’s status as a global music powerhouse.

A United Effort to Drive Growth

With over 20 strategic partners, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, ACC Liverpool Group, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, and Liverpool City Council, MusicFutures will tackle key challenges such as environmental sustainability and inclusivity across the music industry. The initiative aims to unlock economic opportunities while addressing gaps in talent and business development, particularly for underrepresented communities.

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, welcomed the announcement:

“The Liverpool City Region has a long and proud history as one of the world’s most iconic places for music. From the Beatles to our vibrant live music scene, this new funding will build on that legacy. MusicFutures will elevate our cultural status on the global stage, create jobs, nurture creativity, and drive economic growth across the region.”

Supporting Talent and Businesses

One of MusicFutures’ core goals is to empower local musicians and businesses. New funding opportunities will be available for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), along with bespoke training and mentorship for music creators. A key feature of the programme is the MusicFutures Clinic, which will provide much-needed legal and business support to independent creators and small businesses, helping them navigate challenges such as intellectual property and AI-driven technologies.

The initiative also aims to create new pathways into other creative sectors, such as gaming, film, and extended reality (XR), broadening opportunities for professionals in the music industry.

Professor Richard Koeck of the University of Liverpool, who is leading the project, said:

“We have a clear goal: to transform the Liverpool City Region into a global leader in music innovation. By connecting world-leading research capacity with an ecosystem of over 1,400 businesses, we will further strengthen Liverpool’s global reputation and boost its creative industries.”

Sustainability and Inclusivity at the Core

At the heart of MusicFutures is a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. By addressing gaps in training and support for underrepresented communities, the programme aims to create a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Professor Rachel McLean, Director of LJMU’s Liverpool Screen School and Chair of the Liverpool City Region’s Creative and Digital Cluster Board, highlighted Liverpool’s leadership in climate action:

“Liverpool recently became the world’s first Accelerator City for climate action under the UN’s Entertainment and Culture for Climate Action programme. With MusicFutures, we will build on that momentum, developing a sustainable and inclusive music sector equipped to meet future challenges.”

Building the Future of Music

As part of the programme, the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) will deliver apprenticeships and training to help the next generation of musicians thrive. Through partnerships and investment, MusicFutures will ensure Liverpool remains a leader in the global music industry while fostering new opportunities for artists, professionals, and businesses.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the initiative:

“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Liverpool and Merseyside hold a special place in our nation’s music heritage, and this funding will support creativity and experimentation across the city while exploring how we can make gigs more environmentally friendly.”

The MusicFutures programme promises to be a transformative force, empowering local talent, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable growth in Liverpool’s music sector for years to come.