Request for Applications: AFAC’s Music Grant Program

The AFAC Music Grant provides up to USD 25,000 for individuals and USD 35,000 for institutions to support music production, performances, collaborations, recordings, podcasts, and festivals across the Arab region. It funds project-related costs including production, research, and artistic fees but excludes completed or retroactive work. Eligibility is open to individuals and institutions connected to Arab countries.

What is the AFAC Music Grant?

The AFAC Music Grant, administered by the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), supports music-related artistic production and development across the Arab region.

It is designed to strengthen the music ecosystem by funding creative, experimental, and collaborative projects.

Funding Details

Grant Amounts

• Individuals: up to USD 25,000
• Collectives / Institutions: up to USD 35,000

Budget Flexibility

• Up to 30% of the grant can be allocated as artist or institutional fees
• Funds may support both production and development phases

What the Grant Supports

Eligible Project Types

• Music production and recording
• Live performances
• Artistic collaborations
• Album creation
• Music festivals
• Music-related podcasts
• Research and development in music

Eligible Expenses

• Materials and equipment
• Studio or space rentals
• Artistic and technical staff fees
• Production-related costs
• Research and development activities

Key Concepts Explained

Music Production Support

Funding for the creation, recording, and dissemination of musical works.

Artistic Collaboration

Joint work between musicians, producers, or institutions to create new music or performances.

R&D in Music

Exploration and experimentation during the early stages of artistic development.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Individuals from Arab countries (22 Arab League member states)
• Artists regardless of residence or citizenship
• Institutions and organizations working in music or culture
• Both nonprofit and for-profit cultural entities

Eligible Institutions

• Cultural organizations
• Galleries and venues
• Arts and music collectives
• International partners working in Arab cultural projects

Who is NOT Eligible?

• AFAC board members and staff
• Their family members or business partners
• Current jurors and readers in the same category
• Applicants with two consecutive years of funding (must wait 2 years before reapplying)
• Applicants with ongoing active grants
• Multiple applications per cycle from the same applicant

Funding Conditions

What is Covered

• Only project-related costs
• Expenses after agreement signing

What is NOT Covered

• Retroactive funding for completed projects
• General mobility grants (travel-only funding)

Travel Rules

• Travel is allowed only if directly linked to project implementation or research

Why This Grant Matters

• Supports emerging and established Arab musicians
• Encourages regional and international collaboration
• Strengthens music production infrastructure
• Promotes innovation in Arab music culture
• Enables experimentation in sound, performance, and media

How to Apply / How It Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Develop a music-based project proposal
2. Ensure eligibility under AFAC guidelines
3. Prepare detailed budget and timeline
4. Submit application through the official call
5. Await evaluation and selection

What to Include

• Project description and concept
• Artistic vision and objectives
• Production plan and timeline
• Budget breakdown
• Team or collaborator details

Assessment Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Artistic quality and originality
• Feasibility of the project
• Contribution to Arab music culture
• Collaboration and innovation
• Budget clarity and justification

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight originality and experimentation
• Show clear production planning
• Emphasize regional or cross-cultural collaboration
• Provide a realistic and detailed budget structure
• Demonstrate strong artistic intent and vision

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for completed projects
• Including unrelated or ineligible costs
• Weak or unclear artistic concept
• Missing eligibility restrictions (e.g., repeat funding rule)
• Submitting more than one application per cycle

FAQs

1. What is the maximum funding available?

Up to USD 25,000 for individuals and USD 35,000 for institutions.

2. Who can apply?

Artists and institutions connected to Arab countries.

3. What types of projects are supported?

Music production, performances, collaborations, festivals, and podcasts.

4. Can travel costs be included?

Yes, but only if directly related to the project.

5. Are completed projects eligible?

No, only future or ongoing project costs are covered.

6. Can applicants submit multiple applications?

No, only one per call cycle is allowed.

7. What is the main goal of the grant?

To strengthen and develop music creation and production in the Arab region.

Conclusion

The AFAC Music Grant is a key funding opportunity for artists and institutions working in music across the Arab world. By supporting production, collaboration, and innovation, it helps strengthen the regional music ecosystem and enables artists to create impactful, high-quality work.