Motown Introduces Detroit Accelerator Program, $20,000 Grants For Local Musicians

Motown Records is launching an accelerator program in Detroit for local musicians designed to connect them with the music industry. Artists will be mentored, learn to network with new contacts and receive a $20,000 grant. Four artists will be chosen for the program that begins this summer. Motown is accepting submissions for potential participants until July 5th. Artists can use the grant for professional necessities like studio time, marketing and travel. There are no costs for participants who are chosen for the program. Motown moved to Los Angeles in 1972 and the company’s CEO Ethiopia Habetemariam told the Detroit Free Press it is important for Motown to reconnect to Detroit. 

The generator project is a partnership with Motown Museum, TechTown Detroit, Capitol Music Group and Gener8tor. The group will pick Detroit startups (four to six) for the gBETA Musictech program. The seven-week program takes place at TechTown and is aimed at Detroit businesses involved in music technology. 

Five international start-ups will be picked for the gBETA Musictech program at Capitol Records in Hollywood, where Motown Records is currently headquartered. 

Artists who are interested in the accelerator program can apply at MotownMusicianAccelerator.com. Start-ups can submit applications at gBETAMusicTech.com and people and organizations who are interested in mentoring, sponsoring and other participation roles can email partnerships@gener8tor.com.

Motown just celebrated its 60th anniversary with  Motown 60 A Grammy Celebration that aired on CBS.