TWO STEP:
Music Business Course for Bristol Creatives
A fully funded music business course supporting freelancers, artists and creative founders building careers in the UK music industry.
Applications are currently closed - Contact us for further information.
What Is TWO STEP?
TWO STEP is a fully funded music business course and accelerator designed for people working across the music and creative industries.
Whether you’re performing, producing, managing artists, running events, or building any kind of music-focused venture, the programme supports you in developing the business skills needed to grow your work.
Based in Bristol and designed for the city’s creative sector, TWO STEP connects participants with mentors and industry partners who understand the realities of building independent careers in music.
Two Pathways Depending on Where You Are
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START – Turn Your Idea Into Reality
If you have an idea for a project, service, or creative venture but haven’t yet launched it, START helps you turn that concept into a practical plan.
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SCALE – Take Your Business Further
If you already run a business but want to grow and take this to the next level, SCALE provides the structure and support to move forward.
What Makes TWO STEP Different
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The programme was developed by people who have built their own creative businesses and understand the realities of working independently.
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Workshops are tailored specifically to music and creative sectors, covering areas such as artist management, music publishing, live events and marketing.
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There are no course fees for eligible participants. The programme is funded through the Bristol Business Enterprise Support project.
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Participants learn alongside other creatives facing similar challenges, building connections that continue beyond the programme.
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The focus is on solving real business challenges rather than studying abstract theory.
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At least 50% of places support founders from low income, disabled, and/or Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds.
Who’s TWO STEP For?
TWO STEP supports people at different stages of building careers in the music and creative industries.
The programme is designed for:
Freelancers working in Bristol’s creative sector
Artists, DJs, promoters, managers and independent music professionals
People from underrepresented backgrounds who face barriers entering the industry
To take part, applicants must be based in Bristol.
FAQs
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The programme has no course fees. For SCALE participants, additional funding covers a creative freelancer placement supporting your growth project.
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Yes. Participants must be based in the City of Bristol as part of the programme funding requirements.
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Places are limited and the programme prioritises applicants from underrepresented backgrounds. However, you do not need formal qualifications or a completed business plan to apply.
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Participants join an alumni network and maintain connections with mentors, advisors, and fellow founders.
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Yes. While at least 50% of places support underrepresented founders, the programme is open to all eligible Bristol-based applicants working in music or creative industries.