Music Australia
International Conference Contribution
- Managers 2025-26
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia ★
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia ★
Delivered in partnership with Sounds Australia ★
Delivered in partnership with Sounds Australia ★
About
The Association of Artist Managers (AAM), in partnership with Sounds Australia, is pleased to announce the return of the Music Australia International Conference Contribution (MAICC) – Managers program for 2025/26.
MAICC – Managers is a funding program that supports selected AAM-member artist managers to attend major international music conferences. The program is designed to ease the financial burden of international travel and enable managers to conduct market research and reconnaissance in a specific international territory, and/or be on the ground to support showcasing artists during a pivotal moment in their - or their artists’ - international careers.
Grants of up to $5,000 AUD are available to selected participants.
Three funding rounds have been confirmed for the period of July 2025 - June 2026:
ROUND 3, 2025: Provides funding for conferences occurring anytime between September 1st, 2025 - December 31st, 2025
ROUND 1, 2026: Provides funding for conferences occurring in January, February or March 2026
ROUND 2, 2026: Provides funding for conferences occurring in April, May or June 2026
Since its inception in 2023 (then titled the Managers International Conference Contribution), this initiative has supported over 100 artist managers across 2023, 2024, and 2025 to attend key international music conferences. The program offers significant opportunities for networking, export development, and professional growth, through both formal and informal activities surrounding major international music conferences. Recipients also benefit from shared experiences with peers, as well as on-site support from Sounds Australia and/or AAM (where attendance permits).
For details about this program, including key dates, the application process, eligibility criteria and more, please see below. For any further questions, please contact: kate@aam.org.au
Program & Structure
What Do Funding Recipients Receive?
Selected via a competitive application process, successful artist managers will receive contributions of up to $5,000 AUD (excluding GST) to help cover essential costs associated with attending an international music conference of their choice. This may include travel, accommodation, and registration expenses.
We understand that some managers may already be based near their chosen event, or have alternative travel plans. As such, applicants are asked to request only the amount of funding they require, based on their individual circumstances.
How Many Applicants Will Be Funded?
There is no fixed number of recipients per round. The number of successful applicants per round will depend on available funding and the overall strength of the applications received.
What Events Are Eligible?
Applicants must nominate an international music conference occurring within the dates specified for that round (see below). A list of eligible conferences are provided below as a guide to some of the conferences managers may be interested in applying for. However, managers may apply for funding to attend a different conference that is not listed below, which aligns with their strategic goals—provided it falls within the relevant dates for the funding round they are applying for. In their application, applicants must clearly outline the conference’s relevance and value to their (and their artists) professional goals.
Examples of conferences in the 2025/26 funding period that managers may wish to apply for include:
Round 3, 2025 (Conferences occurring between September - December 2025):
AmericanaFest, Nashville, US (Sept 9 - 13)
AXEAN, Bali, ID (Sept 13 - 14)
Reeperbahn Festival, Hamburg, DE (Sept 17 - 20)
Music Matters, SG (Sept 29 - Oct 1)
Amsterdam Dance Event, Amsterdam, NL (Oct 22 - 26)
WOMEX, Tampere, FI (Oct 22 - 26)
Round 1, 2026 (Conferences occurring between January - March 2026):
Eurosonic, Groningen, NL (Jan 14 - 17)
NYC Winter Jazzfest, New York, US (Jan - 8 - 13)
Folk Alliance International, New Orleans, US (Jan 21 - 25)
India International Music Week, Goa, IN (Feb 10-12)
SXSW, Texas, US (Mar 12 - 18)
Bangkok Music City, Bangkok, TH (conference dates TBC)
Round 2, 2026 (Conferences occurring between April - June 2026):
Classical:NEXT, Budapest, HU (Apr 8 - 11)
jazzahead!, Bremen, DE (Apr 22 - 26)
The Great Escape, Brighton, UK (May 13 - 16)
A2IM Indie Week, New York, US (June 8 - 11)
CMA Fest, Nashville, US (Jun 4 - 7)
International Indigenous Music Summit, Toronto, CA (conference dates TBC)
Application Dates
The MAICC 2025-26 funding period will comprise 3 Rounds: Round 3, 2025, Round 1, 2026 and Round 2, 2026. Please see below for application opening and closing dates for each round:
ROUND 3, 2025: For conferences occurring anytime between September 1st, 2025 - December 31st, 2025
Applications open: Wednesday 2nd July, 2025
Applications close: Monday 28th July, 2025 (3pm AEST)
ROUND 1, 2026: For conferences occurring in January, February or March 2026
Applications open: Thursday 11th September, 2025
Applications close: Tuesday 21st October, 2025 (3pm AEDT)
ROUND 2, 2026: For conferences occurring in April, May or June 2026
Applications open: Wednesday 21st January, 2026
Applications close: Thursday 19th February, 2026 (3pm AEDT)
When Will Applicants Be Notified?
Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their submission approximately 2–4 weeks after the application closing date for each round.
Have Further Questions?
Please contact kate@aam.org.au
Eligibility Criteria and T&Cs
Please note there have been some changes to below since previous funding rounds. Please read below carefully before applying. Should you have any questions, please contact kate@aam.org.au.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For Funding?
You are eligible to apply for the current MAICC funding round if:
You are a current AAM member
You are currently working as an artist manager
You have a minimum of 2 years experience working in artist management
You are an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident
You hold a current valid passport
You submit an application by the due date
You must be applying as an artist manager - i.e. a lead manager or co-manager - for the artist/s you are representing during this activity (not as a day-to-day manager, tour manager, or other role)
You are ineligible to apply for funding for this current MAICC - Managers round (Round 3, 2025) if you received funding in the previous MAICC - Managers round (Round 2, 2025)
No more than one management representative of one artist can receive funding for any one conference at a time. This means if two managers are both applying for the same conference representing the same artist (whether they are from the same or separate companies) only one of them will be eligible. In this case, eligibility will automatically go towards (in order of priority); (A) The manager who is also representing another artist that is showcasing at the conference, or (B) The manager who has not yet received MAICC or MICC funding in the past. If both managers meet criteria A and B, the AAM will be in touch with both manager applicants and ask them to choose which one of them they'd like to be eligible, but we would recommend co-managers communicate with one another and their acts in advance of applying, and select one manager to apply. To clarify - more than one manager from a management company is now eligible to apply for MAICC for the same conference, but only if they are representing different artists from the roster at that conference. There must be internal communication within the company that those managers are applying for the same event, and clear communication should be included that the managers are there for different artists’ goals and plans from each other, if multiple managers from the same company choose to apply to attend the same conference.
Whilst applicants can apply for funding for the same conference from another MAICC-distributor (i.e. AIR, AMPAL, ALMBC etc) - or apply for funding to attend a conference occurring in the same country within 2 weeks either side of the conference you’re applying for through this MAICC - Managers round - successful funding recipients will only be allowed to receive funding from one organisation for a single conference OR for a conference in the same country happening within 2 weeks either side of that conference. This is to ensure fair distribution of funds across funding recipients across the board of the wider MAICC program.
Please note that you do not need to be attending your conference with a showcasing artist to be eligible to apply, although we do ask you to specify on your application form whether or not you are attending with a showcasing artist.
Ensure you have read all criteria and T&C’s before applying. If you are unsure of your eligibility, please email kate@aam.org.au to discuss. If you are not a current AAM member and wish to apply to become a member, please visit here.
Please refer to this webpage at the beginning of each new round for any updates on eligibility criteria that may apply.
Selection Criteria
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
A commitment to a career in artist management, and that they are recognised by the industry, and their peers, as a professional music manager.
A comprehensive plan of activities they will undertake during their time at their specified event, demonstrating why this event - and that particular international market - is a priority territory for themselves and their artist(s) at this time.
Clear goals for their artist(s) and themselves in the international market, as well as demonstrating the potential for growth in this region.
A plan for how they intend to maximise the opportunities in the international market before, during and after the program.
A clear outline of their career plans for the next 12 months, which is both detailed and realistic, but demonstrates potential growth.
Letters of support from up to 3 industry professionals or peers. (Whilst letters of support are optional, we highly encourage managers of all levels to include letters of support with their application. These funding rounds are very competitive, and we suggest applicants include letters of support as key support material to boost the strength of their application. We encourage applicants to include letters from people outside of their own company/business.)
Please note that not all applicants will receive funding, and only a selected number of applicants will be successful in receiving funding per round. Special consideration will be given to those who haven’t received MAICC or MICC funding before.
The Association of Artist Managers believes in good governance and ethical practice. We are committed to ensuring that decision processes are transparent and that a clear conflict of interest policy is practiced with each decision on funding and opportunities. The AAM is governed by a Board of senior artist managers and music industry practitioners, most of whom volunteer their time. While still actively working in the industry, they offer their advice and expertise at a macro level, helping to steer the overall strategy of the organisation. AAM Board members are eligible to apply for funding and opportunities offered by the organisation, however the judgement of their applications is kept at an arms-length. No internal staff or other Board members have a say in the outcome of their applications, and the job is outsourced to affiliated organisation(s) involved in the funding or opportunity, to make the final decision. Should you want to know more, you are more than welcome to contact the organisation with any questions about this conflict of interest process.
Terms & Conditions
The Association of Artist Managers (AAM) will pay selected funding recipients (Activity Participants) up to AU$5,000 (excluding GST) as a lump sum upon receipt of a (a) fully executed Agreement and (b) a valid Tax Invoice.
Agreements will be distributed to confirmed Activity Participants promptly upon confirmation of their involvement in this program.
The Grant Funds shall be exclusively used by Activity Participants to contribute toward their costs of attending their specified event, including their flights, accommodation, event ticketing or admission and other similar associated costs.
No later than 90 days from the last day of the event, Activity Participants must provide AAM with an Activity Report that provides details about the activities they undertook with regard to this program, including achievements, goals (including those not met), industry outcomes and benefits, and a breakdown of how the funds were spent.
Travel Permissions: The Activity Participant has, or will obtain prior to the Activity, all visas, permissions, valid documentation and any other permits or exemptions required to travel to the region where their specified event takes place.
As a condition of receiving the Manager Grant, the Activity Participant gives their permission to allow AAM, Sounds Australia and Creative Australia / Music Australia to use, without compensation, the participant’s name, professional information and likeness for advertising and publicity purposes in connection with the Grant, including on websites or social media channels controlled by the AAM, Sounds Australia and Creative Australia / Music Australia.
It is a requirement that you inform us of any co-funding for this activity, whether it is confirmed before submitting your MAICC application; while waiting for the result; or after (and if) your application for MAICC has been successful.
Please note it is the responsibility of all participants to arrange and pay for any insurance that they require to undertake this Activity. (If you wish to use some of your MAICC funding towards insurance costs, this is permitted.)
Applications for Round 3, 2025 are now closed.
Quotes from Previous Funding Recipients
“MAICC is one of the most valuable artists management development opportunities to emerge. Through participating in this program, not only have I been able to grow my roster's export prospects through the region, but I've learnt valuable information which will save us thousands if not tens of thousands in the future. With the cost of everything rising, independent artists and managers can ill afford these types of developmental opportunities, without which they encounter even further struggles to grow or even remain sustainable. Without this funding, I would not have been able to attend this event.”
- Hayley Ayres, 360 Artist Logistics
“As an emerging independent manager it is incredibly valuable to have funding from the Music Australia International Conference contribution. My artists and I rely on grant funding and contributions to assist with the costs of international travel, which can play a major role in advancing their careers globally. Funding from the Music Australia International Conference contribution program eases this financial burden, and in turn accelerates the professional development of myself and my artists. Not only that, but receiving tangible recognition for our work as managers doesn’t happen often so to be recognised by the Music Australia International Conference through this contribution is empowering.”
- Summer King
“Attending The Great Escape was a significant milestone in my management career. Being on ground with a showcasing artist made it hugely beneficial and the contribution through MAICC made it financially possible.“
- Taylor James, Lemon Tree Music
“We are so lucky in Australia to have the kind of support from the AAM, Sounds Australia and Music Australia. This kind of funding frees up managers to be able to fully support their artists in every aspect of what they're doing.”
- Dom Miller, Sunroom Group
“The MAICC program is one of the best funding initiatives for managers wanting to do business internationally. It stands alone in recognising and honouring the key role managers play in the success of an artist.”
- Stu McCullough, Amplifire Music
“I am very grateful for the MAICC to have been able to attend The Great Escape this year. MAICC gives managers the opportunity to be able to back themselves and attend conferences across the world to build their network and their artist's careers.”
- Charlotte Ried, Powerhouse Management
“It’s become so much more expensive to attend these markets in the past few years, but they remain crucial in creating opportunities for artists and projects. This funding made a significant difference to developing international business in a financially sustainable way.”
- Paul Mason
“Being on the ground at these conferences is vital. Having direct connections and conversations has helped plans advance much quicker than it can through email and zoom calls. Being at the Great Escape lead to support slots in Europe, locking in a UK agent for the following year, and we got last minute show offers that we were able to jump on.”
- Mark Neal, Blue Grey Pink
“For some artist teams, the financial support of the MAICC Managers program is the difference between being able to attend these conferences or not. The funds are a real lifeline. This, combined with the wider personal support from the AAM, Sounds Australia and Music Australia has allowed us to truly thrive and create pathways to sustainable international careers. The care and attention that is provided and available during the application process, during the activity and following, has created an inspiring environment that has motivated me and my team to continue pushing. “
- Anonymous funding recipient
“This program allowed me to travel to The Great Escape at a time when I wouldn't have been able to afford to do so otherwise. The event was fantastic for my professional career and networking with the industry worldwide, but I also felt hugely inspired and reinvigorated for my work in music. Working as a solo manager can be isolating and difficult at times, these events are essential for career development, mental health and wellbeing, and community connection. I'm hugely grateful to the MAICC Managers Program for allowing me this opportunity.“ - Lou Sawilejskij, Nala Music
“MAICC helped ease the financial stress of attending this valuable events and would recommend to all Australian managers.”
- Daniel Radburn, Rad Music Management
“Without fail Australian musical talent never ceases to impress on the world stage and SXSW Austin in 2024 was no exception. “
- Zac Abroms, Viceroyalty
“This funding has been so incredibly needed for the longest time. I have attended multiple showcase festivals with my own funds and being able to cut those personal costs in half was the greatest help. People often forget that managers have to pay their own way in order to make future business happen for their artists and for such a small market like ours in Australia this has been a breath of fresh air.”
- Ruby-Jean McCabe, Sunroom Group
“You can have a really important artist with huge international potential but without the backing of bodies like AAM, Sounds Australia and Music Australia it can be really difficult to reach the partners you need to make the career happen. I'm really grateful this framework and support exists, not just for me but for the growth of Australian music internationally, which I'm a huge advocate for.”
- Jai Sparks, Hello- Gardener
“The MAICC Managers program plays a vital role in lessening the financial strains associated with international travel and offers essential assistance to Australian artist managers. The opportunity provided by the 2024 program has been invaluable. The program enabled me to attend SXSW 2024 and capitalize on the benefits of having a showcasing artist. The support by Music Australia, Sounds Australia, and AAM has been instrumental in making this possible, and I am eternally grateful for their unwavering commitment.”
- Sabrina Robertson, Maths & Magic
“Essential support for managers of developing artists, supporting them to build international the networks that can in turn support sustainable careers.”
- Simone Ubaldi, Sundowner
“The AAM grant towards my attendance SXSW 2024 was instrumental in helping make the trip financially viable for a manager - and the benefits for our acts and our management business are already showing. The grant was fast to apply for, practical in its' outcomes, and impactful - exactly how grants should be!”
- Anonymous funding recipient