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International Showcase Fund | How To Apply | SXSW 2025

Introduction

Hello everyone! My name is Wesley Holdsworth, and I am the Grants and Programs Manager at the PRS Foundation. Today, I will discuss the International Showcase Fund (ISF) and provide guidance on submitting your application, particularly for the highly competitive South by Southwest (SXSW) showcase.

What is the International Showcase Fund?

The International Showcase Fund is managed by the PRS Foundation in partnership with various organizations, including Arts Council England, the British Council, and other devolved nations' arts councils. This fund is specifically for supporting music industry professionals wishing to participate in international showcases or songwriting camps.

Eligible Events

  • The fund covers industry-facing showcases worldwide.
  • Examples include major events like SXSW, festival showcases, and songwriting camps.
  • To qualify, you must have an official invitation to the event.

Application Requirements

To apply for the ISF, you must demonstrate:

  • A strong profile in the UK music scene, with national press coverage and some AirPlay.
  • Confirmed meetings with industry delegates (publishers, labels, agents, etc.) at the event.
  • A compelling business case for attending the showcase—what opportunities are you looking to seize?

Funding Amounts

The funding amount is tiered based on the number of performing members in your act:

  • £1,500 for solo artists
  • £2,500 for duos
  • £3,500 for trios
  • £4,500 for groups of four or more

An additional £1,000 can be requested for management costs.

Budget Considerations

  • The fund covers international travel, accommodation, visas, and subsistence while attending the event.
  • Maximum funding is 90% of project costs, and it’s important to demonstrate additional sources of income to balance your budget.

Key Steps for a Strong Application

  1. Export Ready: Show that you are "export-ready" by detailing your career achievements, including national recognition and international potential.
  2. Meetings: Specify the names of industry contacts you plan to meet during the event.
  3. Promotion Plan: Outline how you will market yourself before and during the event.
  4. Measurable Outcomes: State three measurable objectives you aim to accomplish by attending the showcase.

Application Process

To apply, create an account on the PRS Foundation's grants portal. Be mindful of application deadlines—especially for SXSW— as submissions must be made at least eight weeks in advance.

Final Thoughts

Before submitting your application, familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria and guidelines on the PRS Foundation’s website. Remember, your application should reflect a business plan rather than an idea pitch.

If you have any questions, please reach out via email to applications@prsfoundation.com.

We wish you the best of luck with your application!

Keywords

  • International Showcase Fund
  • PRS Foundation
  • South by Southwest
  • SXSW 2025
  • Music Showcase
  • Application Process
  • Export Ready
  • Budget Considerations

FAQ

1. What is the International Showcase Fund?
The International Showcase Fund is designed to support UK music professionals in attending international showcases and songwriting camps.

2. What events are eligible for funding?
Eligible events include any industry-facing showcase or songwriting camp globally, like SXSW.

3. How do I apply for the fund?
You can apply by creating an account on the PRS Foundation's grants portal and submitting your application at least eight weeks before the event.

4. What factors make an application strong?
Focus on demonstrating previous success, confirmed meetings with industry contacts, and a clear promotion plan for the event.

5. How much funding can I receive?
Funding amounts vary: £1,500 for solo artists, £2,500 for duos, £3,500 for trios, and £4,500 for groups of four or more, with additional support for management.

6. What can I include in my budget?
The budget should cover international travel, accommodation, visas, and subsistence during the event, with the requirement to show additional funding sources.

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