Bristol-based Saffron returns with a year-long development programme providing creative retreats, industry training, and financial bursaries.
Saffron is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 cycle of EMERGING, their comprehensive project designed to sustain Black women and gender-diverse artists. The year-long initiative targets three creators, offering professional mentorship and a dedicated bursary for production.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and based in South West England. The program specifically invites women, non-binary, trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming artists of Black or mixed-Black heritage to apply before the July 31st deadline.
EMERGING has a proven track record of elevating underground talent to the mainstream. Previous alumni include session bassist and producer Marla Kether and Bristol electronic mainstay Grove, both of whom have since leveraged the program's resources into significant career milestones.
This call for applications follows Saffron's ongoing work to address systemic gender and racial gaps in electronic music. Beyond mentorship, the collective continues to operate its own label arm and community-driven education workshops from its Bristol hub.