Grant applications for the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund Class of 2022 will open on 21 June 2021. Eligibility of applicants has been expanded to include songwriters and producers. In addition to the USA, Brazil and Australia, this will allow Black artists residing in Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Canada and the UK to apply.
#YouTubeBlack Voices Fund Class of 2022, with the aim to enable Black artists to commercialise their work.
In a statement Youtube Music said, “On June 21, 2021 we will open grant applications for the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund Class of 2022 with expanded eligibility to include songwriters and producers.”
Through the inaugural Class of 2021, the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund provided resources which included dedicated one-on-one support, seed funding, training and networking programs which enabled the 21 grantees to achieve incredible growth – in YouTube and in their careers. Some of these achievements include:
- From January 2021 through April 2021, the class collectively received 1.4bn views on their official artist channels.
- Six artists saw over 50% growth in official artist channel subscribers (Joy Oladokun, Miiesha, BRS Kash, Jensen McRae, serpentwithfeet, and Yung Baby Tate).
- Four artists saw 200% growth on their official artist channel views (serpentwithfeet, Jensen McRae, Yung Baby Tate, and Joy Oladokun).
- As part of YouTube Music’s Africa Month celebration, Sho Madjozi, Sauti Sol, and Fireboy DML hosted exclusive live stream virtual concerts on each of their Official Artist Channels.
- Rexx Life Raj, Joy Oladokun, and Tkay Maidza performed at YouTube’s annual Brandcast event.
- Mariah The Scientist performed an exclusive live set for YouTube Music Nights from Center Stage in Atlanta, in support of the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA).
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