Questions, answered.
How the process works, what it costs, and which programs we cover. If your question isn't here, ask us.
What does the application process look like?+
It depends on the program, but we do everything we can so that you only handle the parts that need you:
- You sign up and pay the upfront fee.
- We send the application materials, including templates built from successful applications.
- You tell us about your project, on a call or by filling in the templates, whichever you prefer.
- We write the first draft, ask follow-up questions, and refine it with you until everyone is happy.
- We upload everything to the funder's portal.
- You review and confirm it all looks good.
- Submit.
What happens if the grant is approved?+
You sign the funder's contract, submit your bank details for the first payment, and run your project inside the program's rules.
We handle the admin that comes with that: tracking which expenses are eligible, collating invoices and proof of payment, and filing the completion paperwork. All of it is included in our fee unless we say otherwise upfront.
How much does it cost?+
An upfront fee of $149 to $499 per application, depending on the program. Applying for multiple grants for the same project gets you a 25% discount on the upfront fees.
If you win, we charge 15% of the funding awarded (including tax), and your upfront fee is credited against it. So 15% is the most you'll ever pay on a successful grant. If you don't win, the upfront fee is all you've spent.
Every project is different, so tell us about yours and we'll give you a free, no-obligation quote. The full breakdown is on the rates page.
Do you ever waive the upfront fee?+
Yes, for FACTOR Tour Support: artists rated 2 or 3 pay no upfront fee. General-rated artists pay the standard upfront fee.
Which grant programs do you cover?+
FACTOR, Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council, Radio Starmaker Fund, Amplify BC, Alberta Foundation for the Arts, SOCAN Foundation, and Ontario Creates.
Current deadlines, maximum funding, and fees per program are on the rates page.
I'm a new or emerging artist. Where should I start?+
Often the $5,000 FACTOR Artist Development program, if you've been commercially releasing music for less than 3 years.
Earlier than that, a 1-on-1 strategy call with our artist development lead maps out your realistic next step, including the grants most artists don't know they qualify for.
Am I eligible, and what are the deadlines?+
Most programs require you to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and each adds its own criteria on top, like commercial release history or career stage.
Deadlines are specific to each program. The rates page lists the current ones, or ask us and we'll tell you what fits your situation.
Do you work with record labels and management companies?+
Yes, usually on FACTOR funding. Tell us about your roster and we'll walk you through the requirements and the best approach.
Didn't find your answer? It costs nothing to ask.
If we can't help, we'll say so.
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