Open call: SAMRO-Music Business Lab training programme

The programme being undertaken in partnership with Music Business Lab (MBL) seeks to equip members with essential business skills to foster sustainable growth and success within the sector.

At its launch, it was limited to music publishers and self-published full and associate members of SAMRO residing in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. However, due to the overwhelming demand, SAMRO and MBL have extended the programme nationwide, recognising the significant interest and need within the music industry. 

The strategic collaboration aims to empower 30 music publishers through an in-depth training regimen focused primarily on the nuances of the music business, particularly music publishing. The programme is poised to cultivate talent and spearhead the formation of resilient music enterprises that span the country. 

It is designed to provide tailored support and empower South Africa’s music SMMEs through certified training, incubation and accelerator programmes and professional development. The organisation is spearheaded by industry veterans Ninel Musson (Vth Season) and Beth Arendse (SA Creative Industries Incubator). 

Participants will gain insights into significant revenue enhancement, product innovation and personal entrepreneurial evolution. They will acquire invaluable skills and knowledge, positioning them not just to survive, but to thrive within the complex music industry value chain. The programme also offers a range of additional benefits, including exposure to key industry opportunities and access to markets, all of which can fuel personal and professional growth. 

“We are excited that each participant will have a unique opportunity to glean insights from seasoned industry players and obtain certification upon completion,” Music Business Lab partner Dawie Bornman said.

Application process

Applications opened on 11 April and those interested need to be full or associate members who are music entrepreneurs in the recording industry with one to three years of experience running a recorded music business/record label, an independent publisher working with at least one artist, or a self-published artist with previously released music on digital platforms.

Note: The application kit will be sent directly to the members via email.

To enhance gender representation, SAMRO encourages female candidates to apply for the programme.

The application deadline is 30 April 2024, with training commencing in May.

For more information email csi@samro.org.za.