The Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI) is inviting applications from musicians, managers and agents to apply for delegate bursaries to WOMEX World Music Expo 2025 in Tampere, Finland. The event will run from 22 to 26 October and brings together more than two thousand industry professionals from over ninety countries. Successful applicants will receive support of up to £700 to cover conference registration, return flights and a contribution towards accommodation and subsistence.

Bursaries are open to individuals and groups who have an established record of international touring and strong promotional materials in place. Only one bursary will be awarded per group and previous recipients who have already benefited three times from the scheme are not eligible to apply again. Applications open on Wednesday 18 June and close at 5 pm on Thursday 10 July with decisions expected in August.

NI delegates will be part of the Horizons national stand alongside Arts Council England, British Underground, Arts Council of Ireland, Culture Ireland, Creative Scotland and other UK and Irish partners. Participation on the stand ensures priority positioning, an online profile in the Horizons directory, access to a dedicated toolkit and first-timers orientation and networking events within the festival.

Ciaran Scullion, Head of Music and Opera at ACNI, said, “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is delighted to supports artists from Northern Ireland to attend WOMEX, thanks to The National Lottery players. This funding is a game changer in enabling artists to network and promote their work to music industry professionals and promoters from across the world. Successful delegates will also receive the full backing of Horizons who will be attending WOMEX to promote artists from across Ireland and the UK. I would encourage those interested to apply soon.”

Guidance notes and the online application form are available at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland website under funding for individuals. Musicians wishing to attend from the Republic of Ireland can apply for Culture Ireland bursaries via the Culture Ireland website.