AIM launches £1m support fund for contractors
- Details
The fund starts with assets of £500,000 committed by AIM and its members, with further contributions invited from all sectors of the music industry and beyond.
The target is to distribute £1,000 to each of 1,000 workers within two months.
AIM CEO Paul Pacifico comments: “Despite government initiatives and the groundswell of support from the music industry, there are still many thousands of workers being left behind without the help that they need to get through this difficult time. Many of these people have suddenly found themselves with no source of income and with families to support, while government support measures for microbusinesses are hard to access for creative businesses and those for the self-employed are not expected to kick in before June.
“The independent sector’s strength lies in its sense of solidarity and community. We have already seen a hugely encouraging show of support for those who are struggling, but there is still more to do. This is a call to arms. Together, we can get through this.”
The AIM fund is open to any contractors due to work with new and developing artists currently signed to AIM member labels who have lost committed income because of cancelled artist projects. This includes tour crews, studio producers, mixing engineers, radio pluggers, graphic designers, stylists, publicists and others who do not qualify for other hardship funds on offer.
To qualify, workers must:
- Be a self-employed contractor or the sole employee of their own loan-out company.
- Not be currently benefiting from any other music industry COVID-19 support scheme.
- Have been nominated by their employing artist’s AIM member label, submitting confirmatory back-up information.
Qualifying workers will receive up to 80% of their lost committed income from the project to a maximum of £1,000. Payments will be made immediately on approval directly into workers’ bank accounts. Priority will be given to UK and Ireland nationals and residents.
AIM welcomes further pledges, which will make a huge difference to the independent community and the whole music ecosystem. To pledge a contribution, please email aimfund@aim.org.uk.
