Questions & Answers
How does the IMO support Indigenous music sovereignty?
The IMO supports Indigenous music sovereignty by helping create more space for Indigenous leadership, decision-making, and representation across the music industry.
That means supporting Indigenous people working in music in ways that respect our communities, cultures, relationships, and ways of doing things. It also means advocating for better opportunities, stronger support systems, and more visibility for Indigenous artists and music professionals.
We know Indigenous music is not one thing. There are many nations, languages, sounds, stories, and experiences that make up Indigenous music communities across the country. The IMO works to support that diversity while helping strengthen Indigenous presence and leadership throughout the industry.
What programs and opportunities does the IMO offer?
The IMO offers programs, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that support Indigenous people working across the music industry. Many IMO programs and funding opportunities are specifically available to Indigenous IMO members. Currently, we have our Cultural Cadence program and the IMO Leadership Program, two programs aimed at advancing the careers and mentorship of music professionals.
This can include mentorship programs, workshops, networking opportunities, industry residencies, leadership initiatives, and community gatherings. We also share external funding opportunities, industry resources, showcases, and other opportunities that may support career growth and connection within the music industry.
Some programs are designed for artists, while others support people working behind the scenes in music. As the IMO continues to grow, we’re continuing to build more opportunities that reflect the needs of Indigenous music communities across the country.
How can Indigenous artists and music professionals connect with the IMO?
There are many ways to connect with the IMO community.
People can stay connected by subscribing to the IMO Amplifier newsletter, following the IMO on social media, attending events, or learning more about IMO membership opportunities. We regularly share updates about programs, funding opportunities, showcases, industry events, and other initiatives happening across the music community.
Whether you’re just starting out, building your career, or already established in the industry, the IMO aims to create spaces where Indigenous people working in music can connect, learn, share knowledge, and support one another.
Why is connection and community important to the IMO?
The IMO believes strong relationships are at the centre of a healthy music community. Many Indigenous people working in music have historically had to navigate the industry without the same access to networks, mentorship, visibility, or support systems. The IMO works to help strengthen those connections through gatherings, mentorship, advocacy, industry relationships, and community spaces where people can learn from and support one another.
Does the IMO offer funding?
The IMO shares funding opportunities, external resources, and industry information that may support Indigenous artists and music professionals. Some future IMO initiatives and opportunities may also include Indigenous member-specific programming and support.
Available opportunities and eligibility details will always be shared through the IMO website and communication channels.
Who can participate in IMO programs and initiatives?
Many IMO programs and funding opportunities are designed specifically to support Indigenous IMO members, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists, creators, and music industry professionals working across different areas of music.
Membership is designed for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people working across different areas of the music industry, including artists, creators, managers, producers, songwriters, and other Indigenous People working in music. Some opportunities may focus on emerging artists and professionals, while others may support more established people working in music.
Each program or opportunity may have its own eligibility requirements, timelines, or focus areas, which will be shared within the application details.
As the IMO continues to grow, membership helps us build stronger connections across the Indigenous music community while creating more direct pathways into programs, opportunities, and industry support.
How do I apply for IMO programs, residencies, and opportunities?
Applications for IMO programs, residencies, and opportunities are shared through the IMO website, newsletter, and social media channels as opportunities become available.
Many IMO programs, funding opportunities, and initiatives are specifically available to Indigenous IMO members and application details will include information about eligibility, timelines, and any materials required as part of the process.
Depending on the opportunity, applicants may be asked to provide things like a short bio, resume, work samples, or a few written responses. We encourage people to read through each opportunity carefully and reach out if they have questions.
As the IMO continues to grow, we’re working toward processes that feel clear, supportive, and accessible for Indigenous people working in music.
How can I become an IMO Member?
The IMO welcomes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people working across all areas of the music industry, including artists, creators, managers, producers, songwriters, composers, and music industry professionals. The IMO also welcomes non-Indigenous industry members who want to support and contribute to a stronger Indigenous music ecosystem.
Becoming a member is a way to stay connected to the Indigenous music community and support the growth of Indigenous music nationally. IMO membership provides access to community updates, networking opportunities, and connection across the industry.
Some IMO programs, funding opportunities, and initiatives are specifically available to Indigenous IMO members. Eligibility requirements for individual programs and opportunities will always be shared within application details.
As the IMO continues to grow, the membership process is designed to be supportive, community-informed, and accessible. Information about membership types, eligibility pathways, and how to join can be found on the Membership page.
Why should I become a member of the IMO?
Membership in the IMO helps strengthen a national Indigenous music community built on connection, collaboration, and shared support across the entire music ecosystem.
What is the difference between the International Indigenous Music Summit, the Indigenous Music Alliance and the Indigenous Music Office?
The Indigenous music ecosystem in Canada is supported by several organizations that play different, but complementary roles. Together they support Indigenous music through events, community building, and long-term sector development.
- The International Indigenous Music Summit (IIMS) is an annual gathering that brings together Indigenous artists, music professionals and industry leaders from around the world for showcases, professional development and cultural connections.
- The Indigenous Music Alliance (IMA) is a membership-based organization focused on advocacy, connections and supporting Indigenous music creators and professionals.
- The Indigenous Music Office (IMO) is a national Indigenous music organization focused on advocacy, funding, programs and infrastructure development domestically, in Canada. The IMO works to strengthen the Indigenous music ecosystem for Indigenous music creators and professionals.