Call for applications: YouTube Foundry Class of 2022

Launched in 2015, Foundry is YouTube Music’s global artist development programme serving the independent music community and allowing artists access to resources to help them thrive on YouTube and build careers on their own terms.

Selected Foundry artists will receive dedicated support from a YouTube partner manager, seed funding invested into the development of their channels, marketing and promotion opportunities, and access to new product features.

The programme is open to developing independent artists who will be distributing official music to YouTube between July and December 2022. Artists can be considered ‘independent’ when they drive their careers forward on their own behalf, and work with indie labels and distribution partners. Artists signed directly to major labels are not eligible to apply.

Interested participants can apply here.

Last year, YouTube Music selected Nigerian singer Bella Shmurda and 26 other musicians from 14 countries. The singer joined fellow Nigerians Rema and Tems who have participated in the programme in the past. 

“Foundry celebrates artists, their courage and reduces barriers to entry,” YouTube said. “This group of artists are driving their careers forward as independents, building communities that allow them the freedom to grow on their own terms. We are so proud to spotlight and play a part in developing indie talent, and will continue supporting these artists every step of the way.”

Foundry alumni include more than 150 artists from 15 countries, such as English singer Dua Lipa, South Korean pop rocker Sam Kim, Norwegian pop singer-songwriter Girl in Red, French rapper Lean Chihiro, Japanese artist Sanari and Haitian DJ and producer Michael Brun.