Funding Guide for African Musicians: Opportunities, Requirements, and How to Apply

orpmarketing
May 19
4 min read

Introduction

For African musicians, funding can be the spark that turns a dream into reality—whether it’s recording an album, touring new markets, or studying at a top music school. This guide covers key funding opportunities worldwide, detailing eligibility, requirements, documentation, and application processes. From grants to scholarships, here’s what you need to know to secure support in 2025.

Funding Opportunities

1. African Culture Fund (ACF)

Overview: Supports performing arts (music, dance, theater) and visual arts projects with grants up to $10,000 for 18-month projects.
Eligibility:
- African artists or diaspora members.
- Individuals or organizations with 3+ years of experience.
- Organizations need legal status.
Requirements:
- Structuring project (creation, production, capacity-building).
- Budget details.
- No mobility grants, but travel costs can be included.
Documentation:
- Project outline and timeline.
- Budget estimate.
- Legal documents for organizations.
- Optional: 2-minute video pitch.
Application:
- Apply online at www.africanculturefund.net (check for calls).
- Submit in English or French.
- Rolling basis; response in months.
Contact:
- Email: applications@africanculturefund.net
- Phone: +223 2020 4345, +223 8211 0127

2. Music In Africa Foundation - Sound Connects Fund

Overview: Funds music organizations in Southern Africa (Angola, Botswana, etc.) with €20,000–€80,000 for ecosystem-building projects.
Eligibility:
- Registered organizations in listed countries.
- Proven track record in music projects.
Requirements:
- Focus on education, entrepreneurship, or exchange.
- Sustainability plan.
- Legal registration and bank account.
Documentation:
- Project proposal.
- Budget and timeline.
- Legal status proof.
- Previous year’s balance sheet.
Application:
- Check www.musicinafrica.net for calls.
- Submit online or via email.
- Highly competitive.
Contact:
- Email: info@musicinafrica.net

3. Art Moves Africa (AMA)

Overview: Travel grants for intra-African travel (covers flights, visas, insurance).
Eligibility:
- Artists in Africa traveling for professional purposes.
- Must be 18+ and African resident.
Requirements:
- Clear career development goal.
- Invitation or project confirmation.
Documentation:
- Application form.
- Invitation letter.
- Travel budget.
- CV/artist bio.
Application:
- Apply at www.artmovesafrica.org (open calls).
- Submit in English/French.
- Plan weeks ahead.
Contact:
- Website: www.artmovesafrica.org

4. Berklee Africa Scholars Program

Overview: Full/partial-tuition scholarships for African musicians at Berklee College of Music.
Eligibility:
- African citizens (in Africa or abroad).
- High school diploma.
- Exceptional talent via audition.
Requirements:
- Financial need.
- Strong academics and music skills.
- Commitment to alumni network.
Documentation:
- Berklee application.
- Audition (live or recorded).
- Transcripts.
- Citizenship proof.
- Financial need statement.
Application:
- Apply at www.berklee.edu/admissions.
- Check audition schedules.
- Align with academic deadlines.
Contact:
- Email: admissions@berklee.edu
- Website: www.berklee.edu/africa-scholars

5. Musicians Foundation (USA)

Overview: Emergency grants for U.S.-based musicians facing hardships.
Eligibility:
- 5+ years as U.S. professional musician.
- U.S. resident with musician tax filings.
- Specific hardship (medical, housing).
Requirements:
- Proof of professional status.
- Hardship evidence.
- Recent tax return.
Documentation:
- Application form.
- Tax returns.
- Hardship documents.
- CV/resume.
Application:
- Apply at www.musiciansfoundation.org.
- Submit Parts 1 and 2.
- Processed in 1-2 weeks.
Contact:
- Address: 875 Sixth Avenue, Suite 2303, New York, NY 10001

6. National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC)

Overview: Funds South African musicians for outreach, composition, tuition, or touring.
Eligibility:
- South African musicians.
- Projects with cultural/national impact.
Requirements:
- Detailed proposal.
- Extensive supporting documents.
- Social/educational focus preferred.
Documentation:
- Application form.
- Proposal and budget.
- References.
- Business plan (if needed).
- CV/portfolio.
Application:
- Apply at www.nac.org.za.
- Submit in English.
- Exceed minimum requirements.
Contact:
- Email: info@nac.org.za

7. emPawa Africa

Overview: Grants, mentorship, and marketing for emerging African artists.
Eligibility:
- African musicians with original music.
- Emerging artists with global potential.
Requirements:
- Strong artist profile.
- Commitment to mentorship.
Documentation:
- Application form.
- Music samples.
- Artist bio.
- Social media links.
Application:
- Follow @emPawaAfrica on X/Instagram.
- Submit online during calls.
- Competitive selection.
Contact:
- Website: www.empawaafrica.com
- X: @emPawaAfrica

8. PRS Foundation - The Open Fund for Music Creators

Overview: Up to £5,000 for UK-based or UK-collaborating music creators.
Eligibility:
- Music creators with a project.
- UK-based or UK partners.
Requirements:
- Clear project plan.
- Career momentum.
- Budget details.
Documentation:
- Application form.
- Proposal and budget.
- Music samples.
- CV/bio.
Application:
- Apply at www.prsfoundation.com.
- Check deadlines.
- Read guidance notes.
Contact:
- Email: applications@prsfoundation.com

Application Tips

Read Eligibility: Confirm you qualify before applying.
Customize: Tailor your proposal to the fund’s goals.
Polish: Avoid typos; test links; use clear formats.
Show Momentum: Highlight recent work (gigs, streams).
Budget Clearly: Break down costs precisely.
Follow Up: Polite check-ins are okay if delayed.

Challenges

Competition: Many artists apply; rejections are common.
Paperwork: Some funds require heavy documentation.
Cash Flow: Travel grants may need upfront payment.

Staying Updated

Subscribe: Music In Africa, PRS Foundation, Ditto Music newsletters.
Follow: @MusicInAfrica, @emPawaAfrica, @PRSFoundation on X.
Check: www.musicinafrica.net, www.artmovesafrica.org, www.prsfoundation.com.
Network: Connect with musicians and organizations.

Conclusion

Funding can unlock new possibilities for African musicians. From ACF’s $10,000 grants to Berklee’s scholarships, opportunities abound. Match your goals to the right fund, perfect your application, and stay persistent. Your music deserves to be heard.

Note: Always verify deadlines and eligibility on official websites, as details may change.