Podcast community Content Is Queen is now accepting applications from podcast creators for its programme offering 'Micro-Grants' for podcasters, in partnership with Audible.
The Micro-Grants For Podcasters Programme 2022 is an initiative open to new or existing UK-based independent podcasters (or groups with under 10 employees), to help them fund podcasting essentials like artwork, equipment, music, production, editing and so on.
The organisation provides support for independent podcasters, consulting services for brands and companies, and a studio recording location. In addition, they run the International Women’s Podcast Festival in partnership with Pinterest, which aims to amplify the voices of female creators in the podcasting space.
“Micro-grants are important as it puts cash directly into the creators’ hands and it gives them autonomy and agency over their content,” said CEO and founder of Content Is Queen Imriel Morgan. “There are lots of great initiatives that are set up to widen participation in podcasting, but some can be paternalistic and prescriptive in how shows should be created.
“When we approached Audible about a partnership we built micro-grants into our ask as we felt it was essential to encourage risk-taking and innovation that we desperately need in podcasting.”
To apply, creators need to submit a form that states the name and description of the podcast, structure, number of episodes and an estimate of how long it will take to produce the idea; as well as the approximate amount of funding needed and how it will be spent, the names of any existing podcasts with a similar idea, and a statement on why the idea deserves the grant.
Successful applicants will be awarded micro-grants ranging from £2,500-£5,000 for their proposed podcast idea, tailored to the budget proposed in the application. They will also receive three months of production support consisting of six hours per week with the Content Is Queen team, to help them kick-start their project.
Last year’s programme saw over 540 applications, with 23 podcast creators winning cash grants between £250-£1,000. With Audible on board supporting the funding of the micro-grants programme, there are now also two recording studios at the organisation.
“We're delighted to continue to support Content Is Queen in the launch of this year's Micro-Grants for Podcasters Programme,” said country manager at Audible UK Kevin Addley. “Imriel and the team at Content Is Queen do exceptional work year-on-year to uplift and support up-and-coming audio talent, ensuring that everyone has a chance in this industry. We couldn't be prouder to be part of this programme."
Talking about the results from last year’s scheme, Morgan said: “The applications were insightful in that we saw a growing trend for the development of video podcasts and also for paying contributors. Some other valuable insights from 2021 were that over two thirds wanted money to promote and market their existing shows. The same number of people (66%) wanted to use the grant for equipment ranging from mics to cameras and soundproofing for home studios.”
The deadline for all applications is 30 November at 6PM and winners will be announced on 20 January next year.
