Unison Fund re-opens the Live Music Workers Fund for independent and self-employed workers: apply as soon as possible!

SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 UPDATE: This program is again accepting applications. However, due to a current submission backlog, the processing time is currently ~12 weeks from the date of application. Please apply as soon as possible.

Learn more and apply. 

The Unison Fund has announced the launch of the Live Music Workers Fund. Recognizing that the live performing arts sector has been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, the Government of Canada has allocated $16,855,000 to The Unison Fund through the Canada Performing Arts Workers Resilience Fund (CPAWRF). In response to this significant funding, Unison has developed the Live Music Workers Fund to aid qualified independent and self-employed workers in the live music sector, with approved applicants receiving a one-time lump sum payment of $2,500. Applications are now open, and will run until March 31, 2023.

Independent and self-employed live music workers who identify their primary occupation in the music community as one or more of the following are eligible to apply for funding: Artist, Artist Manager or Management Company, Booking Agent, Composer, Concert Photographer, Concert Recording Engineer, Consultant, DJ, Event Production/Festival, Marketing/Communications, Merchandiser, Musician, Production Company, Promoter, Publisher, Publicist/Public Relations, Retailer (Instruments and Supplies), Songwriter, Stagehand/Roadie, Talent Buyer, Technician, Tour Management/Operator, Venue Staff, and Videographer.

Unison further defines a music industry professional as someone who has earned a minimum of 55% of their income from music-related activity for at least two consecutive years (prior to the pandemic), acknowledging that little to no work in the music community has taken place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.