IMPRA EMERGENCY FUNDING (IEF) is an initiative designed to provide immediate financial assistance to its members facing unforeseen hardship that threatens their ability to create or perform music. Understanding the challenges musicians encounter, IMPRA recognizes the need for rapid support in critical situations. IMPRA EMERGENCY FUNDING (IEF) serves as a safety net, Helping musicians overcome short-term obstacles and get back on track with their careers, this may be include and not limited to Social gatherings that benefit communities or South African Society. We are committed to supporting musicians at various stages of their careers through a variety of funding initiatives.
FUNDING CATEGORIES
Music Awards Partnership Funding
IMPRA offers funding to established music award events that celebrate and recognize South African music Performers and Producers, most importantly create a platform for content developers and traders to market further especially IMPRA members both locally and in the Continent of Africa. To ensure transparency and effectiveness, applications are evaluated based on the following criteria, rules, and vetting process:
Criteria:
- Established Track Record (2 years minimum):
The event must have a history of successful execution, showcasing its ability to deliver a high-quality awards ceremony. Evidence such as past event programs, media coverage, and audience numbers can be submitted. - Diversity of South African Music:
The event must demonstrate a commitment to representing the variety of music genres produced in South Africa. This can be shown through the award categories, nominated artists, and performers at the event. - Transparent Selection Process:
The application should clearly explain the process for nominating and selecting award winners. This should include a fair and unbiased system to avoid conflicts of interest.
A diverse judging panel with expertise in various South African music genres is encouraged.
Financial Sustainability:
IMPRA funding will not be the primary source of income for the event. A sustainable budget demonstrating other revenue streams (sponsorships, ticket sales, etc.) is required.
Rules:
> Only one application per event or two events in one application ,per year is allowed.
> Funding allocation is limited and competitive. Meeting all criteria does not guarantee support.
> Awards events with a history of discrimination or controversy will not be considered.
> IMPRA reserves the right to request additional information or clarification from applicants.
Vetting Process:
Application Review: A designated IMPRA committee will review all applications based on the outlined criteria.
Shortlisting: Applications that meet the initial criteria will be shortlisted for further evaluation.
Due Diligence: Shortlisted events may be contacted for additional information, references, or a meeting with the IMPRA committee.
Final Decision: The IMPRA ad hock committee will make a final decision on funding allocation based on the information gathered.
Notification: All applicants will be notified of the funding decision in writing.
Additional Information:
Assessment Criteria:
> History and Reputation: The organization’s experience in hosting successful music award events.
> Diversity and Inclusivity: The event’s commitment to showcasing a variety of South African music genres and artists.
> Selection Process Transparency: Clarity and fairness of the nomination and awards selection process.
> Marketing and Reach: The event’s marketing strategy and potential for national exposure.
> Budget Justification: A detailed budget outlining how IMPRA funding will be used and its impact on the event.
The application form for Music Awards Event Funding can be found on the IMPRA website and made available, once in two years. Deadlines for application submission are be clearly stated on the website and application materials. IMPRA encourages open communication. If you have any questions regarding the Music Awards Event Funding program, please contact IMPRA directly. By adhering to these rules, and the vetting process, IMPRA aims to ensure that Music Awards Event Funding effectively supports established events that celebrate the excellence and diversity of South African music.
Event/ Show Funding
IMPRA’s Event/Show Funding program assists independent musicians with covering costs associated with specific events or shows. To be eligible and ensure a strong application, here are the outlined criteria, specifications, rules, and assessment process:
Criteria:
Musician Eligibility:
1.Must be a registered and active member of IMPRA.
2.Can be a solo artist, band, or musical group.
Event/Show Eligibility:
1.Must promote the music of IMPRA-registered musicians (entire lineup or majority).
2.Can be ticketed or free to the public.
3.Can be local, national, or international (with justification for IMPRA funding).
4.Must have a clear purpose and align with IMPRA’s objectives of supporting South African music.
WORKSHOPS.
There must be a platform for Education or Information sharing in order for our members to be further workshopped and gain more Information.
Specifications:
Funding Allocation:
> Limited funding available, allocated competitively based on application merit.
> Maximum funding amount will be clearly stated (e.g., R [amount]).
> Funding can be used for various expenses related to the event/show, such as:
> Venue rental
> Sound and lighting equipment
> Backline equipment (instruments)
> Marketing and promotion (limited allocation)
Rules:
Application Process:
> Applications submitted online through the IMPRA portal
> Application deadlines established well in advance of events.
> Complete application package required, including:
> Project description outlining the event/show concept, goals, and target audience.
> Detailed budget outlining all event expenses and how IMPRA funding will be used.
> Marketing and promotion plan demonstrating how the event will be publicized.
> Supporting documents such as event permits, venue contracts, and artist biographies (if applicable).
Funding Use:
> Funds granted must be used solely for approved expenses outlined in the application budget.
> Recipients must provide receipts or invoices for all funded expenditures upon request.
Assessment:
> Applications will be assessed by a designated IMPRA committee based on a predetermined scoring rubric.
> Scoring will consider factors such as:
> Clarity and strength of the event/show concept.
> Potential reach and impact of the event on the South African music scene.
> Artist/band profile and track record (if applicable).
> Feasibility and detail of the budget plan.
> Effectiveness of the marketing and promotion strategy.
> Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview to discuss their proposal in more detail.
> Final funding decisions will be communicated to all applicants within a specified timeframe.
Additional Considerations:
> IMPRA reserves the right to prioritize funding for events with national reach or significant industry exposure potential.
> Events receiving IMPRA funding may be required to acknowledge IMPRA’s support in promotional materials and at the event itself.
> Recipients are encouraged to explore co-sponsorship opportunities with other organizations to maximize funding for their event/show.
Development Of Local Content
IMPRA’s Studio Session Funding program aims to assist musicians with the financial burden of recording high-quality music. To ensure effective allocation of resources, the following criteria, specifications, rules, and assessment process will be applied:
Criteria:
> IMPRA Membership: Applicants must be active and registered members of IMPRA in good standing. This ensures funding prioritizes musicians who contribute to the organization.
> Originality of Project: The recording project must be for the creation of original and remixed music.
> Distribution and Promotion Plan: Applicants must demonstrate a clear and realistic plan for distributing and promoting the recorded music. This includes details on the intended release format (physical or digital), marketing strategies, and target audience.
> Project Budget: A detailed budget outlining the specific recording costs (studio time, engineer fees, musician fees) must be submitted. This allows IMPRA to assess the financial needs and potential impact of the funding.
Specifications:
> Funding Amount: The maximum funding amount per applicant will be clearly defined. This ensures fairness and distribution of resources amongst multiple musicians.
> Genre Eligibility: While all genres may be considered, IMPRA might prioritize funding for specific genres under-represented in the music industry or aligned with the organization’s strategic goals.
Rules:
Application Process: Applications for Studio Session Funding will be accepted during designated application periods. Clear instructions and online or downloadable application forms will be provided on the IMPRA website.
Supporting Documentation: Applications must include the following:
> Artist biography and contact information
> Music samples (2-3 songs)
> Project description outlining the concept and goals of the recording
> Detailed budget breakdown
> Distribution and promotion plan
> Any additional information supporting the artistic merit and potential impact of the project (e.g., press reviews, performance history)
Incomplete Applications: Applications missing required information will be disqualified.
Assessment:
Peer Review Ad hock Panel: A panel of qualified music industry professionals will assess applications based on the established criteria. The panel might include music producers, engineers, musicians, and representatives from the IMPRA board.
Selection Criteria: Applications will be evaluated based on:
> Artistic merit and originality of the music
> Capability and experience of the musician(s) involved
> Clarity and feasibility of the distribution and promotion plan
> Realistic budget and justification of funding request
> Alignment with IMPRA’s strategic objectives (if applicable)
Funding Decisions: The assessment panel will make funding recommendations based on the established criteria. Final approval will rest with the IMPRA board of directors.
Communication: All applicants will be notified of the funding decision within a specified timeframe. Those awarded funding will receive clear instructions on how to access and utilize the funds.
Additional Notes:
IMPRA reserves the right to modify these criteria, specifications, rules, and assessment processes at any given time. Updates will be communicated through the IMPRA website. Receiving funding does not guarantee commercial success of the recording project. The onus remains on the musician(s) to leverage the funding effectively and fulfill the outlined distribution and promotion plans. By establishing these clear criteria, specifications, rules, and assessment procedures, IMPRA aims to ensure the Studio Session Funding program effectively supports deserving musicians and contributes to the quality and diversity of South African music.
Other Catergories
CATEGORIES BELOW REQUIRES FORMAL APPLICATIONS.
CATERGORIES BELOW REQUIRES FORMAL REQUESTS TO BE SENT TO IMPRA.
- Skills Development (Community Cultural Arts Centre’s, Learnership and Bursaries for the Children and dependents of our members) Emergency request or Benefit.
- Medical Benefit Scheme (Emergency request or Benefit).
- Social Emergency Request(Emergency Request).
- Funeral Scheme and or Tombstone (Benefit and or Emergency Request).
- Estate Planning and Wills to cater for the Royalties(Benefit).
- Cultural and Social Organizations, Parliamentary Groups and or Lobbying Community Groups(Strategic Relations).
- Ancillary Activation Funding.
- International Trade Fares (Mideam Wipo Conferences South By South)