For too long, the music industry has been overrun by gatekeepers who have limited the reach and influence of independent artists. We’re here to create a new music industry Where Creators Have the Power. Through key local, national, and international partnerships, we connect creators across genres, disciplines, and markets, inspiring fresh collaborations and meaningful opportunities – anywhere music is made!

Since 2013, Underground Music Collective has provided independent artists with the resources they need to build sustainable, values-based careers from their creative pursuits. Our Nashville-based educational and multimedia platform has established a key presence in markets across North America through multimedia content, live music experiences, the UMC Academy artist mentorship program, and the UMC UnderDogs community.

Our efforts have received recognition from industry-leading brands and organizations, including SXSW, iHeartRadio, YouTube, Departure Conference, MusicRow Magazine, and many more. In 2025, this widespread recognition has led to multiple invitations for UMC to affect positive change on a global scale.

What is UnderDogs Across Borders?

With UnderDogs Across Borders, we aim to open the gateway to even greater collaboration. Your support bolsters UMC’s presence at major conferences and festivals in North America and Europe, while helping us build a stronger, more sustainable music industry that is ripe with fresh opportunities.

Our groundbreaking Q1 2025 featured major conference appearances, media opportunities, and the official launch of our new UnderDogs virtual community. This has established Underground Music Collective as an international super-connector for independent musicians, creative professionals, and notable brands.

By supporting UnderDogs Across Borders, you ensure that we accomplish our remaining 2025 goals, including:

• Increased presence at major industry events in key markets, including Departure Conference & Festival (Toronto, ON), Music Biz 2025 (Atlanta, GA), SXSW London (London, UK), Gussapolooza (Greater Toronto, ON), Confluence (Charlotte, NC), and NOLA MusiCon (New Orleans, LA).
• Increased visibility in the United States, Canada, and Europe for our robust network of sponsors, community partners, and creative professionals.
• Increased cross-market collaborations (in-person and virtual) between our NEXT2RISE Artist Ambassadors.
• 500 new UMC UnderDogs members by Sept. 1, 2025.

Click here now to donate and learn more about the rewards you receive for contributing to our mission.

Curious what some of our UnderDogs have to say about how UMC has helped them? Watch this!