The Australian music scene has never been more vibrant, but for independent labels and distributors, the leap from domestic success to global recognition often comes with a significant price tag. Recognizing this challenge, the Australian Independent Record Labels Association (AIR), in partnership with Sounds Australia, has officially opened applications for Round 6 of the Music Australia International Conference Contribution (MAICC) program.
Funded by Music Australia and assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, this initiative is a game-changer for the indie sector. The program provides grants of up to $5,000 AUD to help ease the financial burden of attending major international trade conferences. Whether it’s covering airfare, accommodation, or registration fees, the funding is designed to get Australian music professionals into the rooms where global deals are made.
The primary goal of the MAICC program is to support professional development and “reconnaissance.” By attending these events, selected AIR Associate, Full Label, and Australian Distributor members can build invaluable networks, research specific international territories, and create pathways for their artists to break into new markets.
Round 6 is specifically targeting conferences taking place between April 1 and June 30, 2026. This period features some of the most influential gatherings in the global music calendar, including:
- The Great Escape (UK): A premiere destination for new music and industry networking.
- A2IM Indie Week (US): The ultimate gathering for independent label leaders in New York.
- Jazzahead (Germany): A must-attend for the jazz and professional improvised music community.
- Nashville Music Biz (US): Where the intersection of commerce and creativity meets in the heart of Music City.
Applicants also have the flexibility to nominate alternative events that align with their specific business goals, ensuring the funding serves the unique needs of diverse independent catalogues. If you are an independent label or distributor looking to scale your business internationally, now is the time to act. Applications are officially open as of Tuesday, 20th January 2026, and will close on Thursday, 19th February 2026, at 5:00 PM AEDT. Keep in mind that priority is given to those who have not previously received international conference funding, making this the perfect opportunity for first-time exporters to make their mark.
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