SONIC

The SONIC project tackles the lack of policy support for SMEs in the music industry, limiting their competitiveness and growth compared to larger companies and regions outside Europe with robust innovation practices. SMEs often face unclear responsibilities within public authorities and inadequate support structures, hindering their ability to compete globally. SONIC aims to create a supportive environment for innovation, enhancing SMEs' competitiveness in the music industry.

The music industry is crucial to the EU's socio-cultural and economic framework, being the third-largest employer within cultural and creative industries (CCI) and linked to sectors like film, advertising, games, tourism, gastronomy, and technology. CCIs contribute 4.2% to the EU GDP, boosting local economies and enriching the cultural landscape. However, digital distribution and AI are transforming the industry, requiring long-term yet flexible strategies to prevent SMEs from falling behind globally, risking economic growth and cultural diversity in Europe.

Primary objective of SONIC is to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs in the music industry via improved policies. This involves creating exchange and knowledge dedicated to the pivotal themes AI and Skills & Labour. SONIC promotes knowledge transfer and co-creation with local stakeholders, ensuring practical, regionally tailored improvements. Through these efforts, the project upgrades policy instruments and fosters a more competitive, innovative, and resilient music industry across Europe.

SONIC aligns with the EU Cohesion policy by fostering collaboration among partners at various stages of the music ecosystem, promoting regional development and innovation. It bridges gaps between diverse regions and sectors, including Serbia, thus enhancing integration with EU standards.

Partnership Overview:
West: Val de Loire, Martinique (not involved before), Groningen
North: Hamburg, Tampere
South: Athens
Candidate Country: Belgrade/Serbia