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Applications open for Music BC Travel Grants Program (Canada)

Deadline: 15-May-2026

The Music BC Artist Grant Program is accepting applications to help British Columbia-based artists participate in touring and showcase opportunities in Canada and abroad. The grant covers up to 75% of eligible costs, with funding from CAD 2,500 to CAD 7,500 depending on whether the activity is a domestic or international showcase or tour.

About the Program

This grant supports travel-related music industry opportunities for artists based in British Columbia (B.C.).

It is designed to help artists:

  • Attend official music industry showcases

  • Tour domestically across Canada

  • Tour internationally

  • Build audience reach and industry exposure

Funding Available

The program covers up to 75% of total eligible expenses (excluding GST/HST).

Maximum grant amounts

  • Domestic showcase: up to CAD 2,500

  • International showcase: up to CAD 5,000

  • Domestic tour (minimum 7 paid shows): up to CAD 5,000

  • International tour (minimum 7 paid shows): up to CAD 7,500

Eligible Activities

The grant supports four main categories:

  • Domestic showcases

  • International showcases

  • Domestic tours

  • International tours

Showcase requirement

Applicants under the showcase category must have:

  • 1 official showcase confirmation

  • The event must be at least:

    • 300 km away, or

    • More than 4 hours outside their geographical area

Touring requirement

Applicants under the touring category must have:

  • At least 7 paid performances

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must be based in British Columbia.

Business eligibility

If applying as a:

  • Limited company

  • Partnership

  • Sole proprietorship

The business must be:

  • Registered in British Columbia

  • Majority-owned by B.C. residents

Residency rule

Owners or members must have lived in B.C. for at least:

  • 200 days in the previous year before applying

For bands or groups

  • At least 50% of permanent performing members must meet the residency requirement

  • If only 50% qualify, funding may only cover the expenses of eligible members

Eligible Expenses

Pre-initiative costs

  • Rehearsal space rental

  • Musician rehearsal fees

  • Visa fees related to the trip

  • Graphic design for promotional materials

Travel and tour costs

  • Economy airfare

  • Ground transportation

  • Fuel

  • Vehicle rental

  • Instrument baggage fees

  • Accommodation

Promotion and operations

Artist and crew costs

  • Per diems

  • Performance fees

  • Essential crew payments

Ineligible Expenses

The grant does not cover:

  • Music recording or production costs

  • Live show production/presentation expenses

  • Capital purchases

  • Alcohol

  • Membership or subscription fees

  • Cash-paid expenses

  • Donated services

  • Legal or management fees

  • Grant writing fees

  • Repeated trips to the same city within 3 months

Why This Grant Matters

This program helps independent and emerging artists:

  • Reduce the cost of touring and showcasing

  • Access new audiences and markets

  • Gain industry visibility

  • Support career growth through live performance opportunities

  • Expand nationally and internationally

How to Apply

Simple steps

  1. Choose your category

    • Domestic showcase

    • International showcase

    • Domestic tour

    • International tour

  2. Confirm eligibility
    Make sure you are B.C.-based and meet the residency/business rules.

  3. Secure required proof

    • Showcase: official invitation/confirmation

    • Tour: at least 7 paid dates

  4. Prepare your budget
    Request no more than 75% of eligible costs.

  5. Separate eligible and ineligible expenses
    Remove recording, production, cash payments, and other excluded items.

  6. Submit before travel
    Ensure all documentation is complete and tied directly to the initiative.

Tips for a Strong Application

  • Include a clear itinerary

  • Show confirmed paid dates or official showcase invitation

  • Keep the budget realistic and aligned with eligible costs

  • Prioritize activities that clearly support artist development

  • Double-check residency eligibility for all band members

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without a confirmed showcase invitation

  • Listing fewer than 7 paid shows for touring

  • Including recording or production costs

  • Requesting more than 75% of the budget

  • Including trips to the same city within 3 months

  • Failing to prove B.C. residency or business registration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Music BC Artist Grant Program?

It is a travel support grant for B.C.-based artists to participate in showcases and tours in Canada or internationally.

2. How much funding is available?

Funding covers up to 75% of eligible expenses, with maximum amounts ranging from CAD 2,500 to CAD 7,500.

3. How much can I get for a domestic showcase?

You can request up to CAD 2,500.

4. How much can I get for an international tour?

You can request up to CAD 7,500, provided you have at least 7 paid shows.

5. How many paid shows are required for touring support?

You need a minimum of 7 paid performances.

6. What counts for showcase eligibility?

You must have 1 official showcase confirmation from an industry conference at least 300 km away or more than 4 hours outside your geographical area.

7. Can bands apply?

Yes. At least half of the permanent performing members must meet the B.C. residency requirement.

Conclusion

The Music BC Artist Grant Program is a strong funding option for B.C.-based musicians and bands looking to grow through touring and industry showcases.

With support of up to CAD 7,500, it can significantly reduce travel and promotion costs for artists pursuing domestic and international performance opportunities.

For more information, visit Music BC.