This archive report was first published on 12 June 2021.
On June 12, 2021, YouTube announced a significant expansion of its Black Voices Fund, a program aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in the content creation space.
The video-sharing platform is pouring in $100 million to support black creators, including songwriters and producers, in the first year of the funding. This year, the fund will be expanded to include even more recipients, who will undertake a six-month scholarship in music production, engineering, songwriting, mixing, music business, and more.
One hundred thirty-three grantees from the United States, Kenya, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Australia, South Africa, and Nigeria benefited from grants in the first year of the funding. This group included musicians, beauty entrepreneurs, comedians, activists, poets, personal trainers, teachers, parents, photographers, and more. Sauti Sol, Kaluhi, and Michelle Adagala were among the lucky few to receive resources, seed funding, training, and networking programs to boost their careers.
Applications for the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund Class of 2022 will open on June 22nd. If you identify as a Black creator, artist, or songwriter/producer, be sure to apply and check eligibility here.
