UPBEAT

UPBEAT is a European platform for showcase festivals coordinated by Hangvető, co-funded by the European Union. The initiative connects festivals, professionals, and artists in world and roots music, fostering diversity, professional growth, and sustainability across the music sector.

Starting from scratch, the platform built up a solid basis counting MENT, WOMEX, Tallinn Music Week, Budapest Ritmo, PIN, and Babel Music XP among its members. In 2025, UPBEAT enters its new phase with 15 member festivals and 15 associated partners, a number expected to grow as the network expands.

The mission remains unchanged: to support emerging world music talents, strengthen the European showcase ecosystem, and promote cultural diversity against the industry’s homogenizing trends.

Drawing from the experiences of its first three years, UPBEAT relaunches with a refreshed visual identity and brand-new programmes, reaffirming its position as the first European showcase platform dedicated to world music. 

The credit system continues to encourage member festivals to book world music artists, invite professionals, and organize capacity-building programmes. The Best New Talent Award also carries on. Each year, 10 shortlisted artists will be voted on by the public, with the winner receiving performance opportunities, video production support, and enhanced visibility across Europe.