Listen closely: In community halls, youth clubs, and local studios across the U.K., the future of music is taking shape. These are the spaces where young creators find their voice, hone their craft, and build the foundation for a life of creativity. But with over a third of these vital hubs at risk of closure, the need to protect them has never been more urgent. 

That’s where the Open Doors Fund comes in. Now in its second year, our partnership with the national charity, Youth Music, provides essential resources to sustain spaces where young people gather, create, and engage in music and other forms of artistic expression, especially in under-represented communities. It’s a key part of our commitment to the next generation of creators, and this year, we’re expanding support from the initial slate of 15 to an additional 23 youth spaces across the country. 

“Supporting emerging talent is foundational to what we do,” said Kristin Jarrett, Lead, Social Impact & Creator Equity. “We have programs like Fresh Finds and RADAR to boost new artists, but we’re committed to helping creators at every stage of their journey. Open Doors is the starting point: It’s about investing in the community spaces that give young people their first shot at being creative.”

“It’s great that Spotify is continuing to help us change lives through music with the Open Doors Fund,” said Isaac Borquaye, a.k.a. Guvna B, Youth Music’s Co-Chair. “Grassroots music spaces are where young people can build community and confidence. They’re where music begins for many artists. But a third of these crucial projects are at risk of closure. We hope initiatives like this will inspire others to take positive action to protect grassroots music.”

These creative hubs face a serious challenge. Youth Music’s recent research, released to launch the second year of its “Rescue the Roots” campaign, found that 37% of grassroots music projects have considered closing due to funding pressures. With over 33,500 young people on waiting lists, the demand for creative outlets is clear. As opportunities for online connection shift, these real-life spaces offer a powerful way for young people to build their skills and find their community. 

A day for the next generation

To celebrate the 2026 cohort, we welcomed the 23 recipient organizations to our London office for a special Open Doors Day. The event brought young creators together with the Spotify and Youth Music teams for a day of collaboration and inspiration. Singer-songwriter and advocate Nia Smith dropped in to share her story, including how foundational these spaces are for emerging artists. 

The day was packed with hands-on workshops and sessions designed to give young creators a real-world look into the industry, including a podcasting workshop led by Sam Tefera, co-host of Think Twice, a songwriting session with Joel Baker, and an artist listening session with Maegan Cottone. 

The creative energy culminated in a spontaneous performance during the final networking mixer.

Keeping the beat alive

The Open Doors Fund is an investment in the artists of tomorrow and the future of sound. In the first year alone, the fund supported 137 jobs, including 81 freelance roles, and saw a third of young participants progress into further music-making opportunities. 

“That’s exactly the ripple effect we hoped this partnership would create and sustain,” said Kristin. 

By providing critical support to grassroots organizations, we’re helping ensure that young people from all backgrounds get the chance to pursue their passion and build careers in creative industries.  

To learn more about the Open Doors Fund, or to get involved with Youth Music, visit here.