Open call: CAPASSO 2026 CSI funding

The initiative supports projects that contribute to education, empowerment and the long-term development of the music industry. It follows the inaugural funding cycle, which supported 10 projects across education, events, women in music and community development.

“Our first CSI cycle showed us the impact that focused, community-led investment can have across the music industry,” CAPASSO CEO Jotam Matariro said. “We are energised by what our members achieved and are excited to open the door once again for new proposals. We encourage our members to come forward with projects that reflect the spirit of education, empowerment and growth that this initiative was built on.”

Successful applicants may receive grants of up to R200 000 per project. Recipients will be required to acknowledge CAPASSO's support publicly and submit receipts together with a detailed report explaining how the funding was used.

Funding categories

Projects must fall under one of the following categories:

• Educational: Music workshops, accredited training programmes and specialised institutional training that benefit the wider music industry.
• Events: Music festivals, concerts and other ticketed events.
• Women in Music: Projects specifically supporting women working in the music sector.
• Community-benefiting projects: Initiatives that uplift previously disadvantaged communities, whether or not they are directly related to music.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a CAPASSO member, either as a direct composer or through a publisher member. Publisher members may also apply directly.
• Have earned at least R350 in royalties through CAPASSO.
• Be based in South Africa.
• Disclose any additional funding received for the proposed project.

Application process

• Applicants are required to submit:
• A completed application form.

A detailed project proposal outlining:

• the project;
• the need for funding; and
• how the grant will be used.

Applications should be emailed to [email protected] by 24 July 2026.

According to CAPASSO, the initiative is overseen by an independent CSI Committee comprising music industry professionals responsible for reviewing applications and selecting recipients. Successful applicants will be contacted directly regarding the next stages of the process.

For more information, applicants can contact CAPASSO via [email protected] or 011 447 8870.