CES 2023: Mastercard Launches Web3-Focused Artist Accelerator With Polygon

Mastercard announced on Friday at CES 2023 that it is starting a web3-focused accelerator to support artists in connecting with fans through a new platform.

The Mastercard Artist Accelerator,is expected to give five up-and-coming artists—such as musicians, DJs, and producers—the resources, know-how, and connections they need to carve out successful careers in the digital music industry. 

The musicians will have exclusive access to various events, music releases, and other things.

A groundbreaking curriculum will show the artists how to develop (and control) their brand through Web3 activities including creating NFTs, putting up virtual personas, and creating active communities.

The Mastercard Artist Accelerator, was created as a meeting place for musicians to expand their communities, also welcomes music lovers to take a seat at the table. 

Owners of the limited-edition Mastercard Music Pass will have access to the Web3 x Music instructional materials, exclusive resources made possible by our partnerships, and priceless experiences that can be had in both the physical world and the metaverse.

With the help of this token, fans can access the platform and train with artists to improve their own skills and understanding of the industry.

“Music is a universal passion, inspiring us, moving us, and bringing us together; however, it can feel impossible for budding artists to break in.

"With the Mastercard Artist Accelerator, we are expanding access and driving connections further with cutting-edge Web3 technology,” said Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. 

“Our vision is to bridge passion and purpose, spotlighting amazing emerging artists and creating an interactive community that allows participants to learn, experiment and grow together.”

At the Consumer Electronics Show on Friday, Raja and Polygon Studios made a stage announcement about the Mastercard Artist Accelerator.

To provide these fan-driven artist experiences, Mastercard has partnered with the Polygon blockchain.

“Web3 has the potential to empower a new type of artist that can grow a fanbase, make a living, and introduce novel mediums for 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, it provides tools that can educate consumers on how to participate.

"This is an important step forward in opening up the benefits of Web3 to more people.”

The partnership with Mastercard is expected to helped to inspire the next generation of musicians, develop and mentor talent, and curate opportunities to showcase their creativity to wider audiences 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 annual BRIT Awards are put on by the BPI (British Phonographic Industry), which also represents the UK's recorded music market, one of the most vibrant and exciting in the world.