ACM LEVel Up Program Opens Applications & Nominations For 2024

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The Academy of Country Music’s LEVel Up: Lift Every Voice professional development program is currently accepting applications and nominations for its 2024 cohort through Oct. 30.

LEVel Up: Lift Every Voice is designed to elevate and drive the next generation of rising leaders in the country industry, and candidates are encouraged to apply (or be nominated by their peers) if they have worked in the industry for more than five years and have demonstrated a commitment and passion for making country music accessible and welcoming to all.

Individuals selected for the two-year intensive program will work toward the mission of “expanding the horizons of country music to transcend demographics and geography.” Candidates should be driven and high-achieving employees who are passionate about making country accessible and welcoming to all and committed to growing within the industry, as well as innovative, creative and bold thinkers who are motivated by taking action.

“I’m proud to announce the opening of recruitment for the 2024 LEVel Up cohort,” says Shannon Sanders, member of the Academy of Country Music Board of Directors and Chair of the ACM DEI Task Force. “Since its inception two years ago, the ACM LEVel Up program has stood as a pillar of progress and unity in our industry. It’s been a game-changer for the dedicated participants who’ve given their all to their collaborative efforts, especially in the landmark partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition, resulting in the groundbreaking OnRamp program. The ACM’s DEI Task Force salutes the Academy for their unwavering commitment to pushing for more inclusivity and equity in Music City. If you’re passionate about pushing the boundaries of country music, consider joining our next cohort.”

In the first year of the LEVel Up program, participants learn more about the music business from some of the industry’s key executives, as well as participate in volunteer opportunities. The class also collaborates as a cohort to devise a proposal to expand country reach into new and underrepresented audience segments. In the second year, the cohort works together to bring the plan formulated in year one to fruition.

Nominations can be submitted here, or those interested in joining the program can submit their own application here. The program is funded wholly by the Academy of Country Music at no cost to participants.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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