Call for applications: Concerts SA Digital Mobility Fund 2021

The mobility fund, which is managed by local cultural consulting firm Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), is designed for local artists who want to present professional, high-quality performances. It is supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the Swiss-based Levedo Foundation, the National Arts Council of South Africa and the Southern African Music Rights Organisation.

This year, Concerts SA will be considering proposals from music professionals for livestreamed or delayed-broadcast performances, either with or without audiences. Successful applicants will receive a micro-grant of R30 000 (about $2 000).

The deadline for submissions is 22 April at 5pm for the streaming projects, which will take place between 15 May and 15 June. 

Applicants are required to fill in an application form here. An independent adjudication panel will be responsible for selecting and approving the recipients of these subsidies. Thoughtful and detailed proposals with realistic budgets will stand the best chance of being selected. 

Note: Applications submitted elsewhere and/or through other means (email, fax, post, etc.) will not be considered.

Requirements

• Applicants are required to paste a link to their profile on the Music In Africa website (see video below). A Music In Africa profile allows music professionals to add a concise professional bio, pictures, videos, music and other career aspects. This is important for the jury to fully understand the professional profile of the applicant.
• Concerts SA may not cover the full costs of the full production, therefore plans or evidence of income from ticket sales, partnerships and any other additional support improves chances of success.
• Applicants who present evidence of additional support, partnerships, cash or in-kind support, will have an added advantage of success.
• Artists must ensure the careful ownership and management of their music rights with the streaming platforms – for this call out and in terms of future self-management.
• Concerts SA will not take any responsibility for the health and safety of the musicians or audiences at the venues. Health and safety protocols in accordance with government directives for the events are essential.
• In line with the above criteria and the need for social distancing, Concerts SA cannot consider applications for large-scale live events.

“As of the first lockdown in 2020, COVID-19 crippled the live music sector,” IKS director André le Roux said. “The Concerts SA team immediately looked into possible ways to stimulate recovery. We researched digital alternatives to live events which resulted in the publishing of Digital Futures – Live Streaming in South Africa. This research not only provided insight into the best practice of live streaming music events in South Africa but to the best available alternative for a failing sector. From this research, the first Digital Mobility Fund was born.”

View the original call here.