Punch Records has announced the launch of Community Routes, an ambitious development programme designed to develop 50 emerging creative professionals in the West Midlands break into the creative industry.

With a week-long intensive residency, industry-standard masterclasses, one-to-one mentoring, and exclusive networking opportunities, this programme offers the ideal platform for aspiring creatives to refine their craft and unlock their future - and the application process to join the 2025 cohort opens soon.

Following the success of the pilot programme in 2024, the Community Routes initiative is returning in 2025 with an expanded focus.

The programme will concentrate on five key creative careers: Graphic Design, Music Technology, Event Production, Film, and Vocal Performance.

With only ten places available per creative camp, participants, who must be aged 18-25 and based in the Birmingham/West Midlands area, will receive personalised attention and hands-on experience, ensuring they leave the residency with new skills and invaluable industry connections.

Applications for the fifty spaces will be open from Monday 14 May to Monday 30 June, offering young people a chance to take part in the residency, which will run from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd August, followed by an exclusive networking event on Saturday 23rd August. Both the residency and masterclasses run from a location in central Birmingham. 

For more information, visit: wearepunch.co.uk