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Pilot Project: Integrating a caregiver stipend into Manitoba Music’s Market Access Fund grant stream for music artists and industry professionals.

Project Duration: June 2025 – March 2026 (funding applications accepted September 2025 – March 2026)

Continuing to Implement: Caregiving expenses are now named as an eligible expense within the Market Access Fund.

Resources Shared: Caregiver Stipend Press Release, Market Access Fund Information Resource and Application Form (with Caregiver Stipend details incorporated)

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About Manitoba Music

Location: Manitoba
Artistic Discipline: Music
Operating Budget: More than $1,000,000

Manitoba Music is the hub of Manitoba’s vibrant music community. A member-based, not-for-profit industry association, it works with over 700 members in all facets of the music industry. Through its programs and services, Manitoba Music provides information, education, and industry development opportunities to nurture, develop, and promote the growth and sustainability of the Manitoba music industry. Manitoba Music programming includes professionals and export development, Indigenous music development, and Black music development. Manitoba Music’s programs and services are made possible by the generous support of the Government of Canada, the Manitoba Government, PrairiesCan, FACTOR through the financial support of the Government of Canada and Canada’s private radio broadcasters, Manitoba Film & Music, and members of the music industry of Manitoba.

Manitoba Music’s Level UP! Project

Manitoba Music piloted a caregiver stipend for music artists and industry professionals through its existing Market Access Fund, a grant program that supports artists and music companies with business travel expenses. During the pilot, Market Access Fund recipients could receive contributions of up to $700 per trip, based on a flat rate of $100 per day, to help cover caregiving costs related to out-of-province work opportunities, including showcases, business meetings, and collaborative songwriting trips. The rate of $100 per day was determined in consultation with Women in Music Canada.

Because the stipend was connected to the Market Access Fund, it was more accessible to more established artists and industry professionals who had opportunities outside of Manitoba. The first three months of the project were dedicated to planning and preparation, and the Caregiver Stipend pilot was launched in September 2025. 

Looking ahead, Manitoba Music plans to explore additional ways to offer caregiving support, including supports that could reduce barriers for artists and industry professionals at earlier stages of their careers, such as members attending local professional development workshops.

Project Highlights:

• • Incorporated the stipend into an existing fund to reduce the administrative burden for potential recipients as well as administrators.
  • $2,550 in caregiver stipends paid out to artists and music companies over six months.
  • Caregiving costs will continue to be listed as an eligible expense within the Market Access Fund moving forward.