Export Funding

With our export programs and projects, we support both musicians and music businesses in the distribution of their repertoire abroad.

As part of our International Live- & Showcase Funding, musicians can apply for financial support for performances abroad. The program International Export Funding for Music Companies supports small and medium-sized businesses as well as individual entrepreneurs in the music industry in expanding their international activities.

PLEASE NOTE:
German is the mandatory language for applications.

International Export Funding for Music Companies
Program Description
FAQ
Application Form

The aim of the International Export Funding for Music Companies is to strengthen the international competitiveness of music companies based in Germany. This is achieved by supporting both self-initiated measures and participation in international industry events, enabling companies to explore new markets and build sustainable contacts and networks.

Priority is given to activities in target countries where the company and/or its artists have so far been underrepresented or not represented at all, but can already demonstrate an existing following or contacts through agents, management, or social media.

The 2026-02 funding round will open for application from Monday, June 2, 2026 (12:00 p.m.) to Monday, June 22, 2026 (12:00 p.m.).

Project expected to start on: August 21, 2026.

Dates

2026-01 funding round
Application period
Project starting on
2. - 23.3.2026
22.5.2026
2026-02 funding round
Application period
Project expected to start on
1. - 22.6.2026
21.8.2026
2026-03 funding round
Application period
Project expected to start on
31.8. - 21.9.2026
20.11.2026

Contact

Counselling hours:
Monday through Thursday, 10am - 3pm

030 531 475 45 415

We are also happy to provide advice in English, Spanish or Catalan. Please note that applications must be submitted in German.

Hanna Kardasch (she/her)
Project Management Export

export@initiative-musik.de
+49 (0)30 - 531 475 45 - 40

Portrait einer lächelnden Person mit dunkelblonden langen Haaren, Brille und einem schwarzen Rollkragenpullover

Julia Waldmann (she/her)
Project Management Export

export@initiative-musik.de
+49 (0)30 - 531 475 45 - 40

International Live and Showcase Funding
Program Description
FAQ
Application Form

International Live and Showcase Funding supports live performances abroad by performing artists and bands working in the fields of popular music and jazz. By bridging financial gaps, this funding program enables emerging musical acts from Germany to accept short-notice invitations to international performance opportunities that, with sufficient professional prospects, offer exceptional chances for market entry and further career development.

The program focuses particularly on participation in international showcase festivals and live performances abroad aimed primarily at professional industry audiences, as well as support tours overseas that contribute to long-term establishment in a new international target market.

Applications for other types of performances—such as release tours, self-organised tours, or general festival and club shows—can be submitted through the Artist Funding program of Initiative Musik.

The application process for the International Live and Showcase Funding is open on a ongoing basis from Monday, March 2, 2026 (12:00 PM) until Thursday, November 19, 2026 (12:00 PM).

All applications must be submitted at least 6 weeks prior to the first performance date. We recommend submitting applications as early as possible.

Only applications that are complete and submitted on time will be considered.

Contact

Counselling hours:
Monday through Thursday, 10am - 3pm

030 531 475 45 415

We are also happy to provide advice in English, Spanish or Catalan. Please note that applications must be submitted in German.

Hanna Kardasch (she/her)
Project Management Export

export@initiative-musik.de
+49 (0)30 - 531 475 45 - 40

Portrait einer lächelnden Person mit dunkelblonden langen Haaren, Brille und einem schwarzen Rollkragenpullover

Julia Waldmann (she/her)
Project Management Export

export@initiative-musik.de
+49 (0)30 - 531 475 45 - 40

Initiative Musik News

Get the latest information on funding programs, events and more
Logo des Beauftragten der Bundesregierung für Kultur und Medien Logo GVL Logo GEMA Logo Deutscher Musikrat