First Nations Industry Development — 2026/27

Eligibility:

• Governing body majority Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Based in NSW, or demonstrating significant contribution to the NSW contemporary     music sector
• Incorporated entity/trust with an ABN or ACN, or registered under the Associations     Incorporation Act 2009 or Co-operatives National Law (NSW)
• Active ABN and matching bank account
• One application per round; max two Sound NSW competitive grants per financial     year
• Not eligible: non-First Nations-led organisations, applicants outside NSW without direct NSW sector impact, outstanding acquittals,     experimental/classical/opera/music theatre artforms, concert/festival/live event costs (covered by Local Audience Development Grants instead)

Project window: Can'tstart before 7 December 2026; must be completed by 31 December 2027

How to apply: ViaSmartyGrants — https://soundnsw.smartygrants.com.au/2627FNID

Enquiries: Alanah Scholes, SeniorManager First Nations Strategy and Engagement — info@sound.nsw.gov.au/ (02) 9240 8533

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Sound NSW has opened applications for its First Nations Industry Development grant, offering up to $150,000 to NSW Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander led music businesses and organisations with a track record in First Nations contemporary music.

The program funds skills and capacity building, industry up-skilling in best practice and emerging technology, digital content and platforms, marketing campaigns promoting NSW music, and industry-led research and advocacy. Applicants must have a majority First Nations governing body, hold an ABN, and be based in NSW or demonstrate significant impact on the NSW music sector.

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