They may not get the fame, or indeed the groupies, enjoyed by pop stars but promoters are a fundamental part of the music industry.

Putting on gigs, haggling with venues, dealing with dodgy managers and desperately trying to sell tickets are all part of the game.

It is hard work, but it can be extremely rewarding.

Until now there hasn’t been much help for the aspiring promoter but that is set to change through a new campaign launched by top music company Curious Generation (CG) and national enterprise scheme Make Your Mark.

CG has worked with some of the best bands in Brighton like British Sea Power and Electric Soft Parade, as well as breaking artists such as Nick Dawson Kelly.

Founders Alex Martin and Charles Baybutt will provide credibility, expertise, advice and some financial support for young promoters aged 18 to 30 from across Sussex who are willing to promote and manage regular live music events.

In return the aspiring promoter will receive a percentage of the profit share and can gain valuable industry experience and contacts, in addition to their normal work or study.

CG is especially keen to hear from people who want to get into the music promotions business but do not know how to go about it.

Mr Martin said: “Many bands and artists have built up successful careers from humble roots, starting out by performing in local venues.

“This offer will allow young people interested in a range of different musical genres to boost their local music scene and provide opportunities for home-grown bands to showcase their talents.

“The promoter’s job requires brilliant contacts, from agents and music labels to management and Press.

“This is a unique chance to build up those contacts and get established in the business with a bit of support from us.”

Hannah Bourne, from Make Your Mark, added: “The music industry is calling out for enterprising types to come up with fresh ideas. This is a very special opportunity for young people to get a foothold in the music business and be entrepreneurial while doing something they love.”

Paul Latham, president of UK Music and Venues at Live Nation, one of the top online search engines for concert tickets, believes there has never been a better time to get involved with live music.

He said: “With income streams dwindling from recording contracts there has never been more demand from artists to tour. Therein lies the conundrum for any aspiring, or indeed established, promoter: how to deliver the artists’ aspirations both technically and financially.

“Talent is not just what appears on the stage, there is also an art to understanding and developing the potential for those performers. I look forward to seeing the progress of those who take part in Make Your Mark in the Music Business.”

For more information on CG, visit www.curiousgeneration.

com and to apply for the scheme, go to www.makeyourmarkinmusic.