YES WE ARE!

As part of its 10-year celebration, LIMF Academy is joining forces with The Ivors Academy Trust to launch an inspiring new project, YES WE ARE!, a creative initiative designed to spotlight and support the incredible female songwriting, composing, and production talent across the Liverpool City Region.

Through YES WE ARE!, twelve female songwriters, composers, musicians, and producers will come together for a series of guided collaborative songwriting and recording sessions at Kempston Street Studios in Liverpool. These sessions will give participants the opportunity to connect, create, and develop new music under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry professionals.

In February 2026, the group will travel to London for a bespoke industry day offering valuable insights and networking opportunities within the professional music landscape. Some participants will also be invited to perform at the prestigious Kindred Showcase at the Southbank Centre later that month, providing an incredible platform to share their work and talent with a wider audience.

Funded by Liverpool City Council and PPL Giving, YES WE ARE! reflects LIMF Academy’s ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging talent and promoting equality and representation in music.

Applications are now open to female music creators based in the Liverpool City Region. To apply, simply complete the online form available on the LIMF Academy website by Thursday 6 November 2025 at 18:00. If you have any questions about the process, you can get in touch with the team at academy@limfestival.com

Applicants will go through a three-stage selection process: first, an eligibility check to create a longlist; then, scoring by independent advisors to form a shortlist of 20–30; and finally, a selection panel will choose the twelve artists who will take part in YES WE ARE! 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by 14 November 2025 via email. Unfortunately, due to the high number of applications expected, only those selected will be contacted directly, but feedback will be available on request.

For more information or general enquiries, please contact the LIMF Academy team at academy@limfestival.com