LAS VEGAS–(COMMERCIAL WIRE)–Today, Mastercard expanded its growing music footprint with the launch of the Web3-based Mastercard Artist Accelerator program. Web3’s capabilities have the potential to open up a new dimension for music content creation, collaboration, and ownership; however, this nascent space has yet to be fully delivered, particularly for emerging artists. The Mastercard Artist Accelerator will connect select artists from around the world with notable mentors and a dynamic fan base as they learn and create on Web3. The program culminates later in 2023 with a live-streamed artist showcase.

Beginning in spring 2023, the Mastercard Artist Accelerator will equip five emerging artists, including musicians, DJs, producers, with the tools, skills, and access to forge their own musical paths in the digital economy. Artists will get exclusive access to special events, music releases and more. A one-of-a-kind curriculum will teach artists how to build (and own) their brand through Web3 experiences like coining NFTs, representing themselves in virtual worlds, and establishing an engaged community.

Designed as a space for creators to come together and grow their music communities, Mastercard Artist Accelerator also invites fans to sit at the table. The Mastercard Music Pass, a limited-edition NFT, will give cardholders access to exclusive Web3 x Music educational materials, unique resources through our collaborations, and invaluable experiences, in real life and in the metaverse. With this token, fans can join the platform and learn alongside artists to hone their own tools and knowledge of the space.

“Music is a universal passion that inspires us, moves us and unites us; however, it may seem impossible for budding artists to get in. With the Mastercard Artist Accelerator, we are expanding access and further driving connections with cutting-edge Web3 technology,” said Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard’s director of marketing and communications. “Our vision is to unite passion and purpose, highlighting incredible emerging artists and creating an interactive community that allows participants to learn, experience and grow together.”

Raja announced the Mastercard Artist Accelerator from the stage at the Consumer Electronics Show today with Polygon Studios. Mastercard has leveraged the Polygon blockchain to power these fan-driven artist experiences.

“Web3 has the potential to empower a new type of artist who can grow a fan base, earn a living, and introduce novel means of self-expression and connection on their own terms,” said Ryan Wyatt, CEO of Polygon Studios. . “The Mastercard Artist Accelerator not only shows the power of brands embracing this new space, but provides tools that can educate consumers on how to get involved. This is an important step forward in opening up the benefits of Web3 to more people.”

Mastercard has long been a supporter of the music industry, connecting artists and fans through countless priceless experiences and surprises. Building on its sponsorships of the GRAMMY Awards®, Latin GRAMMY Awards® and BRIT Awards, Mastercard took the lead in leveraging Web3 technologies to create exclusive products, inclusive and scalable experiences for fans and artists alike. This past June, the brand even released its first album, “Priceless,” through a groundbreaking collaboration centered around mentoring emerging artists. Drawing on the brand’s history in the music space, along with its experience building strong networks in the digital economy, Mastercard Artist Accelerator will empower emerging artists with the tools and capabilities they need to thrive in this information-driven era. technology.

Maggie Crowe, BPI’s Director of Events and Charities, commented: “The BRIT Awards celebrates 25 years with Mastercard and in turn, that support helps fund the free education offered at the BRIT School in London. This unique partnership with Mastercard has helped inspire the next generation of musicians, develop and mentor talent, and curate opportunities to showcase their creativity to a broader audience and the professional music industry. Mastercard’s Artist Accelerator is a natural extension of this work and will offer musicians the means to develop their skills and connect with fans on new digital platforms, using Web3 technologies.”

The BPI (British Phonographic Industry) represents the UK’s recorded music industry, one of the most exciting and thriving music sectors in the world, and organizes the annual BRIT Awards.

To learn more about the Mastercard Artist Accelerator and to sign up to stay informed of upcoming program milestones, including the launch of Mastercard Music Pass, special artist and mentor announcements, exclusive and priceless music experiences, and more, visit mastercard.com/ Artist-Accelerator.

About Mastercard (NYSE:MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and drive an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses reach their full potential. Our Decency Quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections in more than 210 countries and territories, we’re building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

www.mastercard.com