09/05/18: UK Music CEO Michael Dugher has welcomed the Government’s announcement of a new £3 million fund to support creative projects across the Northern Powerhouse.

_{UK Music chairman Andy Heath (L) and CEO Michael Dugher (R) at the No. 10 reception}

The Prime Minister announced the funding at a Number Ten reception on Tuesday night attended by Mr Dugher, UK Music chairman Andy Heath and representatives from the creative industries.

It followed an Industrial Strategy sector deal for the creative industries earlier this year and a previous pledge from the Government that it will commit £11 million through the Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund to support three major cultural projects in the region.

The Prime Minister said that the new social investment fund, which will offer a mix of grants and loans, would be open to non-profit, community-based organisations that deliver a positive social impact.

Commenting, Mr Dugher said:

“This announcement from the Government is excellent news and builds on the recent creative industries sector deal.

“We are particularly pleased to see the welcome commitment from ministers to regional cultural development.

“UK Music is already working closely with city region mayors in Greater Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield, as well as in other city regions, to help nurture and expand those vibrant and diverse music scenes outside of London.

“Organisations involved in music should seize this opportunity to get their share of this new fund to help grow our music scene in the North.”