How to Apply for Music Funding: A Look at Grants for Musicians In 2024
Photo credit: Derick Daily
Grants are an often overlooked way for musicians to get financial support. So to help bring awareness to this, let’s talk about what grants you can apply for in 2024 to help grow your music career.
Financial Support for Indie MusiciansMost musicians are focused on the more common sources of income, like music streaming or playing shows. But on top of that, indie musicians can earn money in a few other, more creative ways.
GrantsA grant is a financial award given by an organization or non-profit to support specific aspects of your music career.
In addition to the financial support, you can also get a bit of exposure. Usually, the granter will put out a press release and post the winner on social media. Also, winning a grant is definitely something you should include in your Electronic Press Kit.
And, as long as you’re eligible, grants often come with artistic freedom, allowing you to maintain independence and control over your work.
CrowdfundingCrowdfunding is when you tap your audience to help fund a specific project. Recording an album? Going on tour? You can launch a crowdfunding campaign to raise the funds and give your supporters exclusive stuff in exchange.
The most well-known crowdfunding platforms right now include Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe.
PatronageAnother way to tap your fanbase for financial support is patronage. This is when fans subscribe to your exclusive content for a small monthly amount. If you do it right, patronage can be a lucrative and sustainable way to make a career in music.
Two of the best subscriber platforms are Patreon and Grouped.
Now let’s look at actual grants you can apply for based on where you live and what you plan to do with the money…
Apply for Grants in the United Kingdom and EuropeBrighter Sound – A Week with Wu-Lu
Northern England, UK
Deadline: February 4
Apply here
Catalyser Fund
United Kingdom
Deadline: May 10
Apply here
Developing your Creative Practice
United Kingdom
Applications open March 14 – April 11 / July 25 – August 22 / November 14 – December 12
Apply here
Factory Sounds 2024
Manchester, UK
Deadline: February 12
Apply here
Jazz and New Music Creative Grant
France
Deadline: February 29
Apply here
Jazz and New Music Touring Grant
France
Deadline: February 29
Apply here
PRS Foundation
United Kingdom
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
Steve Reid InNOVAtion Award
United Kingdom
Applications open soon
Apply here
Trailblazer Fund
United Kingdom
Applications open August 30 – December 13 / November 22 – March 21 (2025)
Apply here
Apply for Grants in the United States and CanadaNew Music USA
United States
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
BMI Foundation
United States
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
Factor
Canada
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
Apply for Grants in AustraliaCreative Australia
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
Independent Artists or Groups Fund
Multiple grants with varying deadlines
Apply here
Live Music Events Fund
Adelaide, Australia
Open year round
Apply here
