Open call: SAMRO Music Creation Support Fund 2024

The MCSF aims to contribute towards the creation of new original musical works that have not yet been published, performed publicly or broadcasted. This includes new original compositions or the completion of unpublished musical works such as EPs, albums, videos or music scores. 

The R3m MCSF fund is available for 120 members and only designed for associate and full members of SAMRO. It is SAMRO’s flagship corporate social investment (CSI) programme, designed for full and associate members to revive their creativity and compose new musical works that will enable them to generate an income. 

Since the inception of the programme in 2021, SAMRO has committed R2.5m to the MCSF, granting R25 000 to 100 recipients each. This year, SAMRO has boosted the budget to R3m and expanded the number of recipients from 100 to 120. This expansion aims to benefit a broader group of eligible full and associate members of SAMRO, each receiving R25 000 from the MSCF. 

In recent years, the MCSF has experienced a steady increase in both the number of applications as well as the number of qualifying applicants. In 2021, SAMRO received 257 applications, of which 211 were eligible. This trend continued in 2022, with 421 out of 586 applications meeting the criteria. By 2023, the number rose significantly, with 630 out of 782 applications meeting the qualifying criteria. SAMRO then recognised the need to increase the budget for 2024 and expand the number of recipients.

“Recent data indicates a promising surge in female participation, with 36% of applicants being female, compared to 17% in the previous year, reflecting a notable 19% increase,” SAMRO said. “While acknowledging this progress, SAMRO recognises the importance of encouraging more female members to apply for the fund to further enhance inclusivity.

“Furthermore, SAMRO has noted that the majority of applicants for the MCSF are from the Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions. Consequently, the organisation is extending its outreach to members from other provinces, encouraging them to submit their applications. This initiative aligns with SAMRO's commitment to supporting a diverse array of members and ensuring equitable opportunities for all members nationwide.”

Criteria and application process

Full and associate SAMRO members can apply for the 2024 MCSF grants here before 15 March 2024 at 5pm. 

These members are categorised as earning members who satisfy the eligibility criteria to attend and vote at the annual general meeting (AGM). Full and associate members enjoy various benefits, including access to the SAMRO Retirement Annuity Fund (SRAF) and the Funeral Benefit. 

Applications will be assessed on merit by a committee of music industry professionals, considering factors such as the originality of the work, the potential of the final product succeeding and the feasibility of the proposed work plan.

Applicants should request an application form via email at mcsf@samro.org.za and complete it before the deadline. The adjudication committee’s decisions will be final.

Applicants should note the following:

• The MCSF application and funding applies to SAMRO full and associate members only.
• The micro-grant is for new and original musical works. New and original musical works are those that have not been published, publicly performed or broadcast, and can include a new original composition, or the completion of an unpublished work – for example an EP, album, video or score.
• Applications will be assessed on merit by a committee of music industry professionals based on several criteria, including whether the work is a new and original concept, how likely the final product is to succeed and how realistic and implementable the work plan is.
• The adjudication committee’s decisions will be considered final.
• Members who have previously received MCSF support can apply but priority will be given to successful applicants who have not yet received MCSF support.
• SAMRO members should apply for themselves – no third party applications (music managers, promoters, etc.) will be accepted.
• The funds should play a subsidy/support role, and should not be expected to cover the full costs of the creation/production.
• If the application is approved, SAMRO will inform all successful applicants in writing.
• If the application is approved, SAMRO must be acknowledged in the final version of the work.
• If the application is approved, SAMRO will require a copy of the final product for the SAMRO Music Archive and permission for the work(s) to be available for use as part of SAMRO’s marketing
• Only one application per member will be accepted, and double dipping (two members applying for the same project) will disqualify both members from the support.

For further information, email mcsf@samro.org.za or phone 011 712 8417 during working hours (8am to 3pm).

View the original call here.