New BIMM scholarship celebrates partnership with Black Music Coalition and Wretch 32

We’re thrilled to share the news that BIMM Music Institute London has partnered with The Black Music Coalition (BMC) and celebrated rapper and music executive Wretch 32 to launch a new scholarship dedicated to supporting the next generation of Black music industry professionals. This exciting scholarship, which is now open for applications, will provide a transformative opportunity for one Black student to pursue an Undergraduate Degree course (single or joint honours) in either Music Business, Event Management, or Music Marketing, Media and Communication.

The Black Music Coalition is an organisation committed to dismantling racial inequality and advocating for Black professionals within the UK music industry. This collaborative initiative will fully cover tuition fees for three years, reducing the financial barriers of higher education and opening a more inclusive pathway for talented Black students aspiring to build their careers in music.

“When we created The Black Music Coalition, it was with a view to establishing actions which would support the careers of not only Black executives and creatives who were currently working in the UK music industry, but also provide opportunities and support the ambitions of Black executives and creatives wanting to break into the industry. It is in keeping with this aim that The Black Music Coalition, in conjunction with BIMM Music Institute, has established this dedicated music education scholarship to directly support Black students.”

Sheryl Nwosu, Chair of The Black Music Coalition 

The scholarship is the latest in a series of industry-backed initiatives at BIMM. Previously we have launched scholarships with notable artists such as Fatboy Slim, Joan Armatrading, IDLES, and Fontaines D.C. By joining forces with the BMC and Wretch 32, this scholarship represents a powerful step forward in advancing equity within the music sector.

“BIMM Music Institute is committed to shaping an industry that fully reflects the vibrant diversity of our cultural and musical landscape. Partnering with Wretch 32 and The Black Music Coalition to launch this inspiring scholarship at BIMM Music Institute London allows us to create meaningful opportunities for Black students, who are historically underrepresented in higher education, by empowering them to excel in their education and throughout their careers.”

David Rowe – Pro Vice-Chancellor, BIMM Music Institute

The scholarship also brings Wretch 32 – an influential figure in UK music – on board as the official Scholarship Ambassador. Known for his passion and dedication to the industry, Wretch 32 will serve as a mentor, sharing insights and experiences across the student’s three-year course to support their personal and professional growth. Speaking on his involvement, he said:

“Music has always served as a lifeline to me and opened up a world that I may not have come to know otherwise. Understanding that power and finding ways to pass that to future generations is crucial to legacy building and purpose. It is needed from all of us to sustain the art; a part of building is making sure it’s left in safe hands.”

Wretch 32

In addition to tuition support, the scholarship recipient will benefit from exclusive mentorship sessions with Wretch 32, who will be a consistent presence in their educational journey. His involvement reflects a commitment to passing on not only his knowledge but also the cultural insights that have shaped his successful career in music.

With support from industry leaders and advocates, this scholarship offers a new beginning for a deserving Black student ready to embark on an inspiring journey in music. BIMM, BMC, and Wretch 32 look forward to welcoming the next generation of music executives, confident that this scholarship will play a pivotal role in nurturing talent and fostering a lasting legacy of diversity and innovation in the music industry.

Applications for the scholarship are now open and close on Friday 30 May 2025. You can find out more details on the scholarship and how to apply on our Black Music Coalition X Wretch 32 & BIMM Music Institute Scholarship page.

If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]