UK music charity Music Venue Trust (MVT) has revealed details around its new investment programme, ‘Raise The Standard’, providing funding for equipment at grassroots venues.

Supported by LIVE Trust, the new scheme aims to upgrade soundsystems, lighting rigs, backline, microphones and more at venues across the UK.

“This is a new programme focused on something simple but critical: the equipment on stage,” MVT announced on Monday, April 13. “Putting real kit, in real rooms, to make a real difference.”

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‘Raise The Standard’ is backed by “leading manufacturers and suppliers” who are helping to contribute equipment and “direct investment” into independent music venues.

“Alongside other projects launching in 2026, this is where contributions from arena and stadium shows are going – coming back into the spaces where artists start,” MVT said.

“Because the first time you see a band shouldn’t feel like a compromise. Grassroots venues deserve professional-grade equipment.”

The scheme is aided by the UK’s arena ticket levy, which sees £1 from every ticket sold for selected large-scale arena and stadium shows go toward grassroots music venues.

Read this next: Norwich music venue installs artist accommodation to tackle high touring costs

Earlier this week, Norwich live music venue Voodoo Daddy’s used funding from the ticket levy to install artist accommodation as a way to alleviate high touring costs for musicians.

The London Street venue is the first to fit accommodation for musicians as part of the Music Venue Trust scheme, with more expected to follow suit in the coming months.

It aims to support grassroots venues across the UK and the musicians who perform at them, bringing touring costs down by offering a space to rest after shows.

Find out more about MVT’s new ‘Raise The Standard’ scheme here, and read more below.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Associate Digital Editor, follow her on X