The provincial government has created three new funding programs for the B.C. Music fund.
In total $3.8 million has been set aside for three new programs: the live music program; industry initiatives and research program.
“British Columbia’s music sector has seen immense growth and success, thanks to the contributions of our many talented artists,” said Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Shirley Bond, in a press release. “The funding … will serve to further support artists and live music-related businesses, including festivals, venues and event producers, ensuring a strong sector for years to come.”
The live music program will receive $2.5 million. The program supports B.C.-based festivals, venues, live music presenters and event producers. The money will help increase the number of live performances in the province and aid in the development of activities through infrastructure improvements, marketing initiatives and strategy development. The deadline for applications is Feb. 1.
The new industry initiatives program will receive $1 million. The program’s goal is to support industry events such as conferences, trade missions and export marketing to help grow the province’s music industry.
The research projects program will receive $300,000 in funding. The program is meant to increase knowledge by supporting projects that collect data in regards to economic impact, export opportunities, consumer behavior and more.
Funding for both programs will be on a rolling intake.
A B.C. Music Fund information session is being held in Nanaimo Jan. 20 from 7-9 p.m. at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, located at 101 Gordon St., in the Nanaimo River Room. The information session is free but people must register at http://bit.ly/2hVQmPO.
For more info or to apply for funding, please go to www.bcmusicfund.com.
