SAMRO unveils Music Business Lab participants

The initiative aims to empower music publishers and foster sustainable growth within the music industry. Launched in April 2024, the programme attracted a high volume of applications from across South Africa. The overwhelming response highlighted the vast potential and eagerness of SAMRO members within the music community to elevate their business acumen and operational prowess, especially in the publishing realm.

The selected participants will embark on an intensive six-week training regimen crafted to address the intricacies of music publishing and business management. The University of Pretoria supports the curriculum, ensuring that all participants receive accredited certification upon completion, further enhancing their professional credentials.

“We are immensely proud of the diverse group of individuals selected for this year’s programme,” SAMRO CSI manager Lesego Maforah said. “Each participant brings a unique perspective and inherent talent that, when honed, will significantly contribute to the resilience and prosperity of South Africa’s music industry.”

The training programme, set to commence on 16 May, will delve into critical topics such as revenue enhancement, product innovation and entrepreneurial development. The participants will gain exclusive access to a wealth of industry opportunities and market exposure, crucial for their personal and professional growth. The cohort will also be equipped with the necessary tools to navigate the competitive music industry.

SAMRO says the MBL programme stands out due to its publisher-specific format. It will provide comprehensive and highly effective training and development programmes designed to professionalise the music business ecosystem. Through expert-led training, incubation and accelerator programmes, the MBL is committed to enhancing the capacity and success of music business professionals across South Africa.

MBL founder Ninel Musson said: “As the programme unfolds, we are set to embark on a unique learning journey that will not only cultivate the participants’ understanding of the music business but also equip them with the tools necessary to thrive in this competitive industry.”

SAMRO says the MBL is a powerful testament to its commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring the sustainability of the music industry in South Africa.

Visit the SAMRO website for the full list of MLB training programme recipients.