CAPASSO Opens Second CSI Funding Round to Support South Africa’s Music Industry
Building a sustainable music industry requires more than great songs—it requires investment in the people, programmes and communities that make creativity possible.
Recognising this, the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO) has opened applications for the second round of its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) funding programme. The initiative is designed to support projects that contribute to education, empowerment and the long-term growth of South Africa’s music ecosystem.
Following a successful inaugural funding cycle that supported ten projects across music education, live events, women in music and community development, the programme returns with a renewed commitment to strengthening the industry’s foundations.
Investing in Long-Term Industry Growth
As the South African music industry continues to evolve, investment in skills development and community initiatives has become increasingly important.
While conversations around the music business often focus on streaming, chart performance and global success, sustainable growth depends on developing the infrastructure that supports creators throughout their careers. Programmes that invest in education, professional development and industry access help ensure that the next generation of artists, songwriters, composers and music professionals are equipped to succeed.
This is where initiatives such as CAPASSO’s CSI programme can make a meaningful difference.
By supporting organisations and individuals working within local communities, the programme contributes to building a stronger and more inclusive music industry.
Funding Available Across Four Key Areas
Successful applicants may receive grants of up to R200,000 per project.
Funding is available for projects that fall within four strategic categories:
- Educational initiatives, including music workshops, accredited training programmes and specialised industry education.
- Music events, such as festivals, concerts and ticketed live performances that contribute to the broader music ecosystem.
- Women in Music projects that create opportunities for women working across the music industry.
- Community development initiatives that uplift previously disadvantaged communities, whether directly connected to music or through broader social impact.
These categories recognise that a thriving music industry depends on more than commercial success—it relies on access to education, equitable opportunities and stronger community participation.
Who Can Apply?
The funding programme is open to eligible CAPASSO members who:
- Are registered with CAPASSO, either directly as composers or through a publisher member.
- Have earned a minimum of R350 in royalties through CAPASSO.
- Are based in South Africa.
- Disclose any additional funding received for the proposed project.
Applicants are required to submit a completed application form together with a detailed project proposal outlining the initiative, the need for funding and how the grant will be used.
Applications close on 24 July 2026.
Why Industry Investment Matters
The growth of Africa’s music industry depends on more than the success of individual artists.
Long-term sustainability requires investment in education, rights awareness, entrepreneurship, live music infrastructure and programmes that create opportunities for emerging talent. Supporting community-led initiatives strengthens the broader ecosystem and helps ensure that more creators can build meaningful and sustainable careers.
As the industry expands, collective investment from rights organisations, publishers, collection societies and other stakeholders plays a vital role in ensuring that growth benefits creators at every level.
Strengthening the Ecosystem Together
At Downtown Music Publishing Africa, we believe that empowering creators goes beyond administering rights and collecting royalties. It also means supporting initiatives that develop skills, expand access and strengthen the music community as a whole.
Programmes like CAPASSO’s CSI funding initiative demonstrate the importance of investing in the future of the industry—not only by rewarding creative excellence, but by creating opportunities for education, inclusion and innovation.
For eligible CAPASSO members with projects that can make a lasting impact, this funding round presents an opportunity to help shape the future of South Africa’s music industry from the ground up.
