Cultural Cadence 2026
Find your place in music.
The Indigenous Music Office (IMO) is inviting aspiring Indigenous managers, agents and self-managed artists from across Canada to apply for Cultural Cadence 2026. From November 22-27, a 12-person delegation will travel to Toronto for four days of mentorship, learning and connection across the Canadian music industry.
Participants will take part in dedicated Cultural Cadence programming at Massey Hall, the Come Together Music Conference, evening showcases and the International Indigenous Music Summit's Mina-Nowewinan (Good Sounds) event and industry reception.
Applications are open September 8-29, 2026.
Participants Receive
- Round-trip economy airfare to Toronto
- Five nights of accommodation at the Chelsea Hotel
- $800 participation fee
- $450 per diem
- $200 ground transportation support
- Access to Cultural Cadence programming, conferences, showcases and networking opportunities
That's $1,450 in direct participant support, plus airfare, accommodation and program access.
The participation fee recognizes that professional development has an opportunity cost and can mean time away from work, family and community responsibilities.
What you'll experience
Cultural Cadence is designed to help you strengthen your industry knowledge, build professional relationships and find new possibilities for your career in music.
Programming will offer insight into:
- Venue operations and booking
- Event production and arts administration
- Streaming platforms and playlisting
- Artist development
- Releasing and promoting music online
- Building meaningful industry relationships
You will also be part of an Indigenous delegation learning and moving through the experience together.
Who should apply?
Cultural Cadence is for aspiring Indigenous managers, agents and self-managed artists who want to build their knowledge, relationships and place within the music industry.
You may already be managing artists, booking shows, planning releases or building your own career without using a formal industry title. If you are ready to learn, participate and build relationships, we encourage you to consider applying.
We welcome applicants from different Nations, regions, genders, disciplines and career stages. Particular consideration will be given to applicants from northern, rural, remote and other underserved communities and to people who have had limited access to comparable opportunities.
Applicants must be available for the full program and travel dates, November 22-27, 2026.
How to apply
Tell us about yourself, the work you are doing in music and what you hope to learn or build through Cultural Cadence.
Applications will be reviewed by a three-person Indigenous jury. Twelve participants will be selected with consideration for representation across Nations, regions, genders, disciplines and career stages.
Important Dates
- September 8 — Applications open
- September 29 — Applications close
- October 9 — Applicants notified
- October 16 — Participant confirmations due
- November 22 — Travel to Toronto
- November 23-26 — Cultural Cadence programming
- November 27 — Travel home
Application deadline
September 29, 2026
This initiative is made possible with support from FACTOR through the Collective Initiatives program and the Canada Council for the Arts.
