Manchester Council Launches £245,000 Fund Supporting Grassroots Music Venues

Manchester City Council, in partnership with the Music Venue Trust (MVT), has launched a £245,000 discretionary fund to support grassroots music venues struggling with increased business rates following reductions in the Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure Business Rates Relief Scheme. The fund aims to ease financial pressure on these small venues, which are critical to nurturing local musical talent and sustaining Manchester’s globally renowned music culture. Eligible venues must host live music regularly and primarily focus on music to qualify for grants covering up to 35% of their 2025/26 business rates liability, capped at £20,000. This initiative is funded through revenue generated from major city events and represents a rapid, targeted response to protect the grassroots music ecosystem. Council Leader Bev Craig emphasized the importance of these venues as essential parts of Manchester’s cultural identity and expressed commitment to swift support delivery, which is rare in the sector. Applications are open until late November or Christmas, with payments expected by January or February 2026.