In a bid to improve diversity and representation in the music industry, global music distribution and record label services company Ditto has announced a brand-new initiative.
Named ‘Industry Access’, the initiative is aimed at people from minority and working class backgrounds to assist them in kickstarting their careers in the industry.
The development of Industry Access began following the Black Lives Matter protests last summer as an attempt to make a lasting impact on individuals who are not represented enough in the music industry.
The initiative is open to anybody aged over 16, who feels challenged by inequality, and is looking to enhance their experience, network and knowledge of the industry.
It will also be made up of two main elements: the Music Industry Training Programme and a Music Industry Fair & Networking Event.
The training programme – open to 100 applicants – will include 5 in-depth training sessions covering, distribution, artist management, marketing and publishing. As well as each session being hosted by Ditto Music and guest speakers – such as BE83’s Despa Robinson and The Go 2 Agency’s Shauni Caballero – the programme will include a closing keynote from Big Zuu.
Due to take place on September 4th, the fair and networking part of the initiative will be open to everyone who completes the initial training programme and will host numerous industry guests from label reps and owners and music lawyers to marketing companies and more.
Commenting on the launch of Industry Access, Ditto CEO Lee Parsons, said: “After we pledged to $100,000 in 2020 to support Black Lives Matter causes and underrepresented people across the music industry, it was clear that we needed to use our position to create real opportunities that would make a real difference.
“That’s why we created Industry Access, to give those who feel underrepresented in the industry the opportunity to learn from the best, develop their skills and excel in their own careers.”
Applications for Industry Access are now open and you can click here for to apply and for more information.