OMIF — Music Industry Initiatives
Highlights
This program is designed for you. It offers funding to support initiatives that will strengthen and grow your business. By applying, you can access grants that help with professional development, training, networking, and market development. This funding can lead to increased sales, innovation, and expanded regional capacity.
What You Get
- Direct grants towards eligible activities
- Matching contributions to maximize ROI
- Funding amounts ranging from $10,000 to $300,000
Benefits
- Boost your market share and sales
- Promote innovation within your business
- Expand your regional capacity
The application process is straightforward, and you will receive a response within 8-10 weeks. This program is a valuable opportunity to invest in your business's long-term growth and sustainability.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Direct Grants
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- No repayment is required as this is a grant.
- No interest rates apply.
Eligible Expenses:
- Professional development
- Training
- Networking/business-to-business initiatives
- Business analytics
- Market development export activities, including showcasing Ontario talent
Ineligible Expenses:
- Funds cannot be used for capital expenditures such as equipment or software purchases, unless specified under certain circumstances.
- General operating expenses not related to the eligible activities.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with applying for or receiving this grant.
Qualifications
- Must be an Ontario-based music industry trade association or music service organization.
- Must be registered in Ontario and have a permanent office in Ontario.
- Must provide a matching contribution to the funding request.
- Must demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes that align with the program objectives.
- Must submit applications electronically through the Ontario Creates Online Application Portal (OAP).
- Must submit financial statements for the most recently completed fiscal year and the previous fiscal year.
Must have or be able to obtain general liability insurance with specific coverage requirements.
Disqualifications:
- Domestic music promoters and presenters (including festivals) with revenues over $1M who meet the eligibility criteria of Experience Ontario.
- Applications submitted after the final program deadline.
Description
This program offers your business a great chance to grow and thrive in Ontario's music industry. You can receive funding between $10,000 and $300,000 to support various activities that will help your business expand and innovate.
Eligible activities include:
- Professional development and training
- Networking and business-to-business initiatives
- Business analytics
- Market development and export activities, such as showcasing Ontario talent
The funding is provided as a direct grant, meaning you don't have to pay it back. However, you must match the contribution to ensure the best return on investment. Activities must be completed within a 12-month window, ending no later than December 31, 2025.
This program is designed to have a long-term impact on your business by building market share, increasing sales, promoting innovation, and expanding regional capacity. By participating, you can strengthen your business and contribute to the economic and cultural growth of Ontario's music industry.
Program Steps
Register for an Online Application Portal (OAP) Account:
- Visit Ontario Creates Online Application Portal.
- Click on "Register" to create a user account if you do not have one.
Contact the Ontario Music Office (OMO):
- Email [email protected] at least three weeks before the application deadline to discuss eligibility and any questions you may have.
Attend an Information Session (Optional but Recommended):
- Register for an information session to gain insights into the application process. Check the Ontario Creates website for session dates and registration details.
Prepare Necessary Documentation:
- Financial Statements: Two sets of financial statements for the most recently completed fiscal year and the previous fiscal year.
- Business Plan: Include company history, team overview, business activities, goals, SWOT analysis, risk management plans, and how the funding will contribute to growth.
- Certificate of Insurance: Acknowledge that you have or can obtain general liability insurance.
- Activity Budget Template: Complete the budget template provided in the program documents.
- Applicant Affidavit: Fill out the affidavit form available on the Ontario Creates website.
Compile Additional Information:
- Ensure all information is current and accurate.
- Save and review your application incrementally on the OAP.
Submit the Application:
- Log in to the OAP and complete the application form.
- Upload all required documents and ensure all sections are filled out.
- Submit the application electronically before the deadline.
Await Response:
- Applications are reviewed within 8-10 weeks of submission.
- Be prepared to provide additional information if requested during the review process.
Approval and Funding:
- If approved, review and agree to the final terms.
- Ensure all conditions, including the certificate of insurance, are met before funds are disbursed.
Commence Activities:
- Begin your funded activities within the approved 12-month window.
- Ensure all activities align with the approved budget and project plan.
