Saffron opens applications for 2023 - 2024 artist development programme

Saffron Records has opened applications for its 2023-2024 artist development programme.

The project, which will run for eight months from this December, is designed specifically to support Black producers and music makers based in Saffron’s home of South West England.

Four successful applicants will be provided with tools, opportunities and support to develop their music careers, including 1-2-1 mentoring with industry professionals, an £800 development fee to cover creation, recording and production costs, and guidance on self-releasing their own track.

Participants will also be invited to a five day artist’s retreat and receive a one-year Saffron membership, as well as having access to monthly peer support sessions and the opportunity to take part in a showcase event.

Speaking on the programme, Saffron founder and creative director Laura Lewis-Paul said, “This project is really important to me, not just as a mixed-race woman in the South West, but thinking about it in relation to the wider music tech industry, as this project allows a space for us to breathe, to be creative and to be heard.”

This cohort is open to Black women, trans and gender non-conforming music creators based in Bristol and South West England (including Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Wiltshire).

Applications are open now and the deadline is 6pm (GMT) on 3rd November. Head to Saffron’s website for further details on eligibility and to apply.

Earlier this year, Saffron launched a fundraising campaign to help it continue its vital work advancing gender equality within the music industry. You can support Saffron by heading to the group's GoFundMe campaign.

Already this summer, Saffron has offered support to marginalised people via workshops featuring rRoxymore, Manuka Honey and others. The record label arm, Saffron Records, also put out the first single from producer Marla Kether.