SOPHIE scholarship fund launched for women, trans and non-binary creatives in electronic music

A new initiative to support women, trans and non-binary university students studying audio engineering in the US has been set up in tribute to the late electronic visionary, SOPHIE.

The SOPHIE Scholarship Fund has been established through the charity We Are Moving the Needle, which works to help “all women recording industry professionals”. Grants of $5,000 and $10,000 will be made available in a bid to close the gender gap in American electronic music. Recipients can use money to cover costs including tuition fees, books, equipment and supplies. 

“SOPHIE’s legacy is a beacon of inspiration to countless creators and her innovations continue to shape the future of music,” We Are Moving the Needle said in a statement. “We are thrilled to celebrate her indelible mark as it lives on in the next generation of trailblazers.”

Posting to SOPHIE’s MSMSMSM FOREVER Instagram account, representatives emphasised how close the cause was to the Scottish artist, who tragically died in January 2021 following a fall in Athens, Greece.

“SOPHIE was passionate about the future of music, and, just like she did, we can’t wait to see many more women, trans and non-binary creators change the game,” the statement read. 

SOPHIE Scholarship Fund applications are open until Sunday 27th April, closing at 11.59PM EST. You can find out more information and apply here. 

Last year, SOPHIE’s posthumous final album was released. It was named one of DJ Mag’s favourites of 2024.