Nominations for the second round of the ACT Amp It Up! funds are now open. Image: Harry Chalker
To combat the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, local music venues and performing artists will get a boost with the second round Amplify it! funding is now open for applications.
Developed last year to support local small and medium sized venues to offset some of the costs associated with booking, hosting and promoting shows, Amplify it! will continue in 2022 to help venues bring exciting live music and performances to Canberra.
23 sites have succeeded under the fund in 2021 and the momentum is expected to continue with an additional $500,000 available for the second round of the program.
The Transit Bar was able to bring great energy and live entertainment thanks to financial support from the Amp It Up program. Image: Harry Chalker
Past recipients of Amplify it! shared their appreciation for the support provided, including Joel Tyrell, director of operations at the popular Transit Bar.
“Thanks to the funding we received, we were able to run a two month program of events which supported us and local artists in Canberra. The funding also helped us organize our revival party which featured the Brisbane ‘Dune Rats’. This has been huge for us and has given us a strong start after two brutal years dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Joel
“The support we received from Amplify it! was vital for Transit as it gave us the confidence to book artists and minimize our risk. Since reopening we have had incredible support from our customers, we miss live music so much and are excited to put on more live music this year.
Small and medium venues across the city can request a minimum of $5,000 and up to $45,000. Applications close at 5 p.m. Monday, May 30, 2022venues are therefore encouraged to submit submissions promptly.
For more information on the Amplify it! program and to apply, visit the Business Hub Amp It Up website.