Open Programme

The Youth Music Open Programme is available for organisations wishing to apply for grants of £5,000 to £30,000.  For the full eligibility criteria, see our Eligibility guide.

Our Open Programme targets nearly £2m of Youth Music’s funding towards projects that support our goals of:

• Early Years – advancing the learning and development of all children in their early years (0-5) by aiming to ensure universal access to high quality music making in England
• Challenging Circumstances* – improving the life chances of children and young people in the most challenging circumstances by supporting them to achieve their full potential through engagement and progression in music making
• Encouraging Talent and Potential – realising the musical talent and potential of children and young people by ensuring opportunity for all to develop their talent regardless of background or chosen genre

*What are ‘Challenging Circumstances’?
Children and young people in challenging circumstances are those who are marginalised by society, vulnerable, often hard to reach, and who have the fewest opportunities. Examples could include young people who are carers, young parents, looked after children and young people, those at risk of offending or young offenders, children and young people with disabilities or long-term ill health. This is not an exhaustive list by any means and we would ask that you make clear to us the case for how the children and young people you are proposing to work with are in particularly challenging circumstances.

How to Apply
Application is online, if this is the first time that you have used Youth Music’s online application form, apply here

Existing applications
If you are a returning applicant, and wish to access your account or Open Programme application form, please visit the Application Account page  

PLEASE BE AWARE that in order to complete the application form, you will need to ensure that the version of your internet browser is the most up to date version available. For example, if you are using Internet Explorer, you will need to have version 7 or 8. You can find out which internet browser edition you are using by clicking on ‘Help’ at the top of your window and then scrolling down to ‘About Internet Explorer’. It is worth checking the homepage of your internet browser to discover if you are working with an old version. If you are, you can usually download the most up to date one for free. In addition to this, please ensure that you have Java enabled and cookies switched on when working on the form. If you experience trouble with this, please contact us on 0207 902 1060 and we will be happy to help.

Before you apply, we strongly recommend that you do the following:

- Check your eligibility for Open Programme Funding
- Read the Applicant Guidance
- Contact your REO

Please note that all applications must be submitted via the online form. However, you can view or print a pdf version of the application form and Hot Tips.   If you have difficulty accessing the online form, or need support completing it please contact 0207 902 1060 or reception@youthmusic.org.uk. 

You can apply at any time, but we have four closing dates for 2010/2011:

We recommend you take these closing dates and processing times into account when planning your project. Allow plenty of time to put your application together and submit well in advance of the closing date. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered until the following closing date. We cannot assess applications that are not eligible or complete. This is to help us ensure that all applications are considered fairly and equally.

Downloadable guidance and forms
To download all relevant documents and guidance for your application, visit our downloads page

Applicant success rates
Unfortunately, it is not possible for us to fund every application we receive.  So far in 2009/10, 48% of Open Programme applications have been successful in securing funding. 

Application Consultation
Our research and evaluation department conducted a consultation with previous Open Programme applicants in order to improve the application procedures for this funding round.  Download a copy of the consultation report

Contact Us
T: 0207 902 1060
E: reception@youthmusic.org.uk

London 2012’s Inspire programme
We would like to encourage all Open Programme applicants who are inspired by the London 2012 Games to apply to have their projects and events recognised through London 2012’s Inspire programme. London 2012’s Inspire programme will help bring the benefits of the 2012 Games to every part of the UK – giving millions the opportunity to participate as never before. For more information visit the London 2012 website or get in touch with the London 2012 Creative Programmer for your region.  If you apply and are successful in having your project recognised as part of London 2012's Inspire Programme, please let us know so that we can highlight your success