Acast launches Acast Amplifier, a podcast incubator to discover the next generation of UK podcasters

Acast, the world’s leading independent podcast company, today announces the launch of Acast Amplifier — its first ever podcast incubator programme — in the UK. Acast Amplifier has been developed to discover and invest in the next generation of podcasters, and will see three aspiring UK-based creators produce and launch new podcasts, as well as receiving benefits including a £2,500 grant.

To be considered, budding podcasters based in the UK — and who don’t already have a podcast — need to apply via an online application. Applicants should introduce themselves and their podcast idea, alongside a 60-second audio statement explaining why they should be picked for the Acast Amplifier incubator.

Acast and a panel of ambassadors — featuring fan-favourite podcasters from the Acast Creator Network alongside other industry experts — will judge the entries and choose three winning creators. Applications are open from today, January 25, and closing at 00:00 GMT on March 14.

Panellists include Adam Buxton (The Adam Buxton Podcast), Chanté Joseph (writer, creator of How Not To Be Racist), Pete Donaldson (Football Ramble), Dane Baptiste (comedian, host of Dane Baptiste Questions Everything), Niellah Arboine (Growing Up With gal-dem), Tash Walker and Shivani Dave (The Log Books), Leanne Levers & Roshan Roberts (Dope Black Women), Scroobius Pip, Stu Whiffen and Adam Richardson (Pod Bible), Imriel Morgan (Content is Queen), Chal Ravens (Novara Media, Crack Magazine), and Sophie MacAskill (Curtis Brown)

Winning applicants will have their first three episodes fully produced, along with their podcast’s branding including artwork and music. They’ll also receive a £2,500 grant each, to continue to fund their show, plus a free lifetime subscription to Acast’s top hosting plan, and bespoke support and free equipment from Acast and its partners – including Shure, Pirate Studios, and Crack Magazine’s creative agency CC Co. To cover all bases, from production to branding and monetisation, winners will also receive mentoring from Acast.

Sam Shetabi, UK Content Director from Acast, said: “This really is the opportunity of a lifetime for three people with a story to tell. They’ll get unparalleled support and advice from industry big-hitters, including mentorship from some top podcasters who’ve been there and done it.

“We want to provide tomorrow’s podcast creators with everything they could possibly need to get their ideas out into the world, and I can’t wait to hear their applications. We’re about to uncover the next great British podcast.”

Adam Buxton, host of The Adam Buxton Podcast, said: “Hello Adam Buxton here. Podcasting is a great way to make genuine connections with an audience whether you’re recording a chat on your phone or creating intricate soundscapes, dealing with serious subjects or providing relief from everyday stress by being silly, and I’m very happy to encourage new voices and new ideas to emerge with the help of Acast’s Amplifier programme. I’m excited to hear who’s out there.”

Imriel Morgan, CEO of Content is Queen: “I believe podcast incubators are the future of talent development in the podcasting industry. We need to create risk-free environments for creators from all backgrounds to innovate and pivot. It’s been core to my work for the last seven years so I’m very excited to join the Acast Amplifier judging panel and hear all of the niche and wonderful ideas that come from the applicants.”

Pete Donaldson, host of Football Ramble: “I’m really excited to hear pitches from fresh voices in the space through the Acast Amplifier. It’s often said that podcasts have a very low bar of entry, but great ideas can often get buried under poor production, planning and the like. I’m honoured to be able to help Acast give new podcasts the very best start.”

Chanté Joseph, writer and creator of How Not To Be Racist: “I’m a huge fan of podcasts, I probably listen to more podcasts than music. Every week I try to find a new series to listen to that will help me to discover a new idea and expand my worldview. I’m so excited to sit on this panel and be a part of aiding the next generation of talented podcasters. I can’t wait to listen to all of the ideas and get lost in their stories.”

Acast Amplifier follows the launch of Aclass Essentials, a free online resource to equip anyone who wants to start their own podcast with the knowledge they need to produce great, original audio content from home.

Visit www.acastamplifier.com for more information and to apply today.