MONCTON (GNB) – The provincial government is investing an additional $50,000 to help New Brunswick musicians showcase their talents outside the province.
This augments the current fiscal year’s funding of $320,000.
The investment by the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture will support musicians with expenses related to showcases, live performances, professional development and business travel through the Music Industry Development Program, which is now administered by Music NB.
“This additional funding to this grant program is part of our ongoing efforts to support economic competitiveness by investing in sectors that have important growth potential, which includes our musicians and the music sector as a whole,” said Finance Minister Cathy Rogers. “Through our partnership with Music NB, we are confident this additional investment will increase the presence of New Brunswick artists in external markets while having a positive impact on employment in the province.”
Rogers spoke on behalf of Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames.
Last year, the department announced that New Brunswick was joining its Atlantic counterparts in having its music industry association administer funding to support the music sector on behalf of the government.
“We are delighted that the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture is investing in the Music Industry Development Program,” said Music NB president Véronique Wade. “This program allows New Brunswick artists and industry professionals to stand out on the national and international stage and stay competitive in an ever-changing industry.”
As a provincial non-profit association with ties to government agencies and departments at the provincial, regional and national levels, Music NB represents, supports and promotes New Brunswick’s music industry and artists.
Based on Statistics Canada data, and according to a 2015 report, the sector contributes $41.2 million in labour income and $65.2 million in GDP to the province.