The CLMA Launches 'Setting the Stage' Pilot Program, Sponsored by RBC, to Empower Emerging Artists and Support Independent Venues, Promoters, and Festivals Across Canada
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7th, 2024 - In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) is pleased to announce the launch of Setting the Stage, sponsored by RBC. Setting the Stage is a pilot program that will provide up to 10 micro grants of up to $3000 CAD each to CLMA members* who are independent** live music venues, promoters, or festivals, to support (at least) one live performance and direct mentorship of a local, emerging*** artist(s). The goals of the program are:
to create enhanced opportunities for an emerging artist(s) through live performance and dedicated mentorship,
to offset risk for venues/promoters/festivals, and
to encourage fans to discover and engage with a new artist(s).
The program will help to address the market challenges that persist in some areas of the live music ecosystem, challenges that are directly impacting live music venues, and challenges emerging artists’ face as they try to grow their careers.
“We are thrilled to launch this pilot program”, said Erin Benjamin, President & CEO of the CLMA. “And equally thrilled to, for the first time in CLMA history, partner with RBC. With their support, we can further address challenges members continue to face, creating key opportunities for Canada’s incredible emerging artists as well as our essential live music spaces.”
Applications will be accepted from independent CLMA-member promoters, venues and festivals, in partnership with the chosen artist(s). The proposed concert can be a new or pre-existing booking. Live performance and mentorship activity must take place between January 15th – March 1st, 2025.
The deadline to apply is November 29th, 2024.
Learn more about Setting the Stage HERE.
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*Eligible applicants are independent live music venues, concert promoters, festivals and/or others who are CLMA members, whose core business is hosting and/or promoting live music shows of artists and musicians for audiences.
**An independent venue, concert promoter or festival is any Canadian for-profit or not-for-profit live music venue or promoter which:
- is not publicly traded, in whole or in part; and
- has its head office in Canada/Northern Turtle Island.
***An emerging artist is someone in the early stage of their career, who has yet to establish themselves broadly within the music industry. (Artists are Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, or people who lived all or most of their lives in Canada).
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