CoSTAR National Lab: Grassroots Music Venue Innovation

The CoSTAR National Lab, in partnership with MusicFutures (Liverpool City Region) and supported by the Music Venue Trust, invites UK-based companies to pilot technological innovations that help grassroots music venues thrive.

Grassroots venues are cultural cornerstones — nurturing emerging artists, building community, and energising local economies. Yet, alarming trends show a loss of two venues per month across the UK

This R&D competition supports creative, scalable, and equitable interventions — from hybrid performances and digital twins to AI-supported audience experiences — that transform how venues, artists, and audiences connect.

What’s on offer:

• Up to £40,000 funding per project

• Access to CoSTAR’s Futures Studio in Egham (virtual production, immersive audio, spatial tech)

• Facilities and R&D support from MusicFutures in Liverpool

• Expert guidance and exclusive research materials

• A £4,000 stipend for travel/residency if needed

• Ownership of any newly developed IP under qualifying terms

Timeline & Details:

• Apply by: Tuesday 26 August 2025, 12:00 GMT

• Projects must start by 1 October 2025 and conclude by 27 February 2026

• Proposals must include at least one grassroots venue and one live performer

• Pilots should run in front of live audiences at least twice between January and February 2026, ideally reaching 50–200 people on-site (plus additional virtual reach)

Essential focus areas: equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) and/or environmental sustainability; both supported via tailored mentorship.

One funded project will be based in Liverpool City Region — placing the region at the forefront of music innovation.

How to find out more: Download the full Brief, FAQs, and watch the webinar recordings on the CoSTAR website