Ten up-and-coming independent British artists have received grants to further their careers from the Featured Artists Coalition and Amazon Music’s Step Up Fund.

The acts will all benefit from grants of up to £8k, alongside mentoring, a one-year PRO membership to the FAC, a one-year subscription to Amazon Music and content creation opportunities. This is the fund's third year in existence.

Singer, songwriter and producer Azekel, who has collaborated with Massive Attack and Gorillaz and supported Erykah Badu, is among those chosen. Musician BEKA, who created the soundtrack for the fourth season of the Apple TV+ series Trying, is also on the list.

Others include Ivor Novello Rising Star nominee Blair Davie, alternative duo Dirty Nice, singer-songwriter Hana Lili and rock band Lime Garden. The remaining acts are singer Olive Jones, rapper ShaSimone, indie artist SOFY and metal act unpeople.

David Martin, CEO of the Featured Artists Coalition, said of this year’s cohort, “Since we launched Step Up in 2022, I've been consistently inspired by the quality and the sheer volume of artists who apply. This year was no exception. The range and diversity has been incredibly strong. The U.K. clearly has no shortage of talent, and there is evidently a real need for more of this kind of targeted funding, that can help independent artists realise their potential and build sustainable careers.”