New $75,000 investment will support artist development and expanded travel opportunities for Island musicians
CHARLOTTETOWN, PE – August 20th, 2026 – Music PEI is pleased to announce a new three-year partnership with the Rising Tide Community Fund, representing a $75,000 investment in the development and careers of Prince Edward Island artists.
Through the partnership, the Rising Tide Community Fund will provide Music PEI with $25,000 annually over the next three years, supporting two key areas of Music PEI’s artist development programming.
As part of the partnership, Music PEI’s Golden Ticket program will now be presented by the Rising Tide Community Fund, with $20,000 annually dedicated to the program.
Golden Ticket is Music PEI’s intensive artist development program, designed to provide emerging Island artists with the resources, mentorship and professional support needed to take an important step forward in their careers. Participants receive hands-on support throughout the development and release of new music, helping artists build both their creative work and the skills and assets needed to bring it to audiences.
The partnership will also allow Music PEI to expand its Microgrant Program with the introduction of five new Travel Microgrants each year, supported by an additional $5,000 annual investment from the Rising Tide Community Fund.
The new Travel Microgrants will provide flexible, accessible support to help Music PEI members pursue career-building opportunities outside Prince Edward Island. The grants are intended to help reduce some of the financial barriers associated with travel and allow artists and industry professionals to take advantage of opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Rising Tide Community Fund for this investment in Music PEI and Island artists,” said Andy Glydon, Executive Director of Music PEI. “Multi-year partnerships like this provide much-needed stability and allow us to continue delivering high-quality programs that support artists at important moments in their careers. The expansion of our Microgrant Program is particularly exciting, helping emerging artists access new markets and pursue opportunities beyond PEI that can have a real impact on their career development. It’s especially meaningful to see the Rising Tide Community Fund reinvesting in the artists and organizations working to strengthen the music industry on PEI year-round.”
“We’re proud to support Music PEI and invest in the next generation of Island artists,” said Ben Murphy, CEO of Whitecap Entertainment. “As a promoter, we see firsthand how important it is to have a strong and thriving local music community. These programs give artists the support and opportunities they need to develop their careers, reach new audiences, and take the next step both at home and beyond PEI.”
The three-year partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities for Prince Edward Islanders and investing in the people who contribute to the province’s vibrant cultural community.
Applications are now open for both Golden Ticket presented by the Rising Tide Community Fund and the new Travel Microgrants. Golden Ticket submissions close September 13 at 11:59 p.m. AT, while Travel Microgrants will be available on a rolling basis until the annual funding allocation has been fully distributed.
Full program details, eligibility requirements and application information are available through Music PEI.
About Music PEI
Music PEI is the music industry association for Prince Edward Island, working to advance the careers of Island artists and music industry professionals through investment, professional development, export, showcasing and industry-building opportunities.
About the Rising Tide Community Fund
The Rising Tide Community Fund Inc. supports the professional growth of emerging artists across Atlantic Canada. Funds are raised through Whitecap Entertainment’s two signature music festivals, Cavendish Beach Music Festival and Sommo Festival, and reinvested in opportunities that support the region’s next generation of talent. With a focus on emerging young musicians, the fund reflects Whitecap Entertainment’s commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant arts communities and a strong local music industry. Rooted in pride of people and place, the fund recognizes the vital role creativity plays in enriching culture and strengthening communities.
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