Greater Manchester charity Forever Manchester has announced Manchester-based fintech Zuto as the official headline sponsor for its inaugural Forever Manchester Rocks – a high energy battle of the bands event that will see Manchester businesses swap spreadsheets for setlists to raise funds for community groups.
Taking place at Band On The Wall on Wednesday 10th December 2025, the event will see participating bands perform in front of a panel of five high-profile music industry experts including musician and journalist John Robb, presenter, producer, writer and DJ Matt White, and independent artist Jenna G. The night will be hosted by Radio X Presenter Sophie Sveinsson.
All money raised through the event will help Forever Manchester to continue funding and supporting over 1,300 community projects each year. Since its establishment in 1989, Forever Manchester has delivered over £65m into local community activities and projects, from mental health and disability support groups to junior football teams, food banks, refugee support networks and knit and natter groups.
Both Forever Manchester and Zuto are calling for workers across Manchester to enter their bands now and get involved.
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Jim Wilkinson, CEO of Zuto and president of Forever Manchester said: “We’re proud to sponsor Forever Manchester Rocks, a high-energy Battle of the Bands event where teams from across Manchester compete to raise funds for Forever Manchester. It’s going to be a great night of live music and fierce competition.
“Forever Manchester is the only charity dedicated to funding and supporting grassroots community activity across Greater Manchester. Their belief is simple – everyone deserves the opportunity to be happy. We’re proud to continue to support this fantastic charity.”
Nick Massey, chief executive officer of Forever Manchester added: “We’re delighted to announce Zuto as the headline sponsor for Forever Manchester Rocks! Their support will have a huge impact, helping to fund the local, grassroots projects that we work with across Greater Manchester. We can’t wait to dance the night away at Band on the Wall with Zuto and all the participating bands.”
Whether you’re a law firm, accountancy giant, tech start-up or marketing agency, if you’ve got a passion for performance, Forever Manchester wants to hear from you. The rules are simple: A majority of band members must work in the same industry or business, covers or originals welcome, just bring your best 15 minute set and the instruments. The backline, PA, sound engineer and audience will be provided! Acts will be judged on talent, energy, crowd reaction, showmanship and amount of money raised.
Register your band today, or visit the website to explore sponsorship opportunities.
