Zoo Labs: FUND
Unrestricted grants with mentorship and training for Bay Area music-centered, culturally rooted artist teams to launch or grow music businesses.
Funder: Center for Cultural Innovation
Due Dates: August 7, 2026: Full application submission deadline (11:59 a.m. PT)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$50,000 per award (multiple tiers); total pool $225,000; 1-year support
Summary: Unrestricted grants with mentorship and training for Bay Area music-centered, culturally rooted artist teams to launch or grow music businesses.
Key Information: All team members must be full-time residents of one of nine eligible Bay Area counties; at least one must be a culturally rooted artist.
Description
This opportunity provides unrestricted funding, entrepreneurial training, and professional network access to teams of Bay Area music creators whose work is grounded in cultural heritage, innovation, and community expression. The program is designed to empower culturally rooted artist teams—especially those facing barriers to capital access—to launch, sustain, or expand music-centered businesses that drive cultural vibrancy and economic growth in the region. Administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, the grant also includes mentorship resources and is open to a broad range of music business models, from ensembles and studios to music tech and education nonprofits.
