Wallonie-Bruxelles International (WBI) - Travel Grants for Musicians

What you get

You will receive your transport costs covered, up to 100% if you are invited to perform at an international music event abroad. The grant covers your journey from your place of residence to the venue: a train ticket in 2. class, an economy-class flight, or a flat-rate allowance for the kilometres travelled in your own car (currently 0.4326 EUR per km, including fuel, insurance, wear and tear, and tolls). Car hire costs and the cost of shipping your instruments and sound equipment abroad are also covered, although the amount for equipment may be subject to a limit. There is no fixed upper limit on the grant itself. The funding comes from Wallonie-Bruxelles International (WBI) in collaboration with Wallonie-Bruxelles Musiques and is intended to help music from Wallonia-Brussels reach international stages. The grant does not cover accommodation costs, travel between cities within the host country, meal costs or performance fees.

Who can apply

• Who you are: You are a professional musician, a band, a company or a collective. Managers, agents and record labels may also submit an application on behalf of such an organisation. Internationally active DJ projects are also eligible to take part.
• Field: Your project must involve music.
• Where you are based: At least half of the members must be legally resident in Wallonia or Brussels. If you are standing as a representative, your place of residence or your company’s registered office must be located there.
• Track record: You have already performed at venues in Belgium attended by professionals from the music industry.
• Where you go: The event is taking place abroad, outside Belgium.
• Type of event: It must be a showcase festival or trade fair where music industry professionals are really present, such as programmers, journalists or distributors. Festivals that partner with the agency count automatically. For others, you must prove this in your application.

How to apply

Please apply by email, enclosing the application form, a contract or a letter of intent from the host, and a press pack. An assessment panel meets approximately 10 times a year. Please submit your application at least 12 days before the relevant meeting and, in any case, before the event takes place. You will receive a response by email within 30 days of the meeting.