Generator is the North's leading creative talent development agency, operating in the North East for over 30 years, supporting artists, creatives and entrepreneurs at every stage of their career and creative journey.
Aligned under its four guiding pillars, Skills, Talent Development, Community and Partnerships, Generator is an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation on a mission to create a sustainable music industry in the North East that ensures access for all.
Generator has supported everyone from early-career musicians through to chart toppers like Sam Fender and Nadine Shah with a diverse range of funded programmes, showcases, events and 1:1 support from industry leaders. In 2023, it launched its own music label in partnership with global music powerhouse EMI North meaning artists from the North East can get a clear and direct route into the industry without having to relocate. The label is tasked with finding the next big thing to come from the region as well as nurturing an eclectic range of artists who will fly the flag for the region's music scene.
Each year, Generator produces what is fast becoming the premier live music event in the North - Generator Live, providing a platform for artists to perform in front of thousands of live music fans and industry titans. Its landmark Skills For Growth programme will also train up learners from across the area in technical skills for the live sector in collaboration with the North East's leading venues, plugging a major skills gap and retaining talent in the area.
Generator's creative and cultural business network Generator Union relaunched in 2022 with a comprehensive membership offer, delivering networking, masterclasses and insights to allow creatives, culturally aligned businesses and enterprises to connect, create and collaborate.
Working alongside its main funders Arts Council England, North of Tyne Combined Authority, Youth Music and PRS & PPL Foundation, the organisation has forged groundbreaking partnerships across the industry, from Warner Music Group, Abbey Road Institute, Musicians Union, Help Musicians, Brighter Sound and the Ivors Academy alongside a number of other lucrative partnerships and collaborations to be announced.
Generator is a committed signatory of the Keychange Pledge and a Living Wage employer.
