Applications For 2024 Grants Are Now Open!
Now in its fourth year, Black Music City is a program that calls upon Black creatives in the greater Philadelphia area (PA, NJ, DE) working in any creative medium to submit their project ideas honoring Philly's Black music heritage and apply for a project grant. Selected artists will receive a grant of $1,500-$5,000 each to bring their projects to life. A committee of prominent Black Philadelphia professionals in the arts, media, and business will judge the final round of applicants to be awarded the $125,000 in grant funding available for 2024.
Local Black creatives working in any medium can apply for grants that will provide financial and promotional support for new, original works that honor Philly’s rich Black music heritage.
Applicants must be:
African American/Black
18 years or older
Residing or working in the Greater Philadelphia area: PA, NJ, DE
Able to complete the work by May 31, 2024
Available periodically from February 2024 through May 2024 for "check-in" videos with the BMC Team
Available to participate in the concluding celebration event in June 2024
Application Timeline
2024 Selection Committee
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Chill Moody
Philadelphia's Music Ambassador
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John Morrison
Writer, DJ, & Producer
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Laurin Talese
Composer & Vocalist, Vice President, Recording Academy, Philadelphia Chapter
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Samantha Rise
Artist and Activist
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Greg Bryant
WRTI Host of Evening Jazz & The Get Down
Judging Criteria
Each category is scored on a 1 to 10 scale by our Selection Committee:
Storytelling & Theme
The project will tell a clear, significant, & relevant story that fits with theme of honoring Philadelphia's rich Black music heritage
Creativity
The project will be originally produced in a unique, innovative style
Personal Opinion
The Selection Committee really enjoys the concept/idea of the project submission
Past Work/Resume
Does the applicant have a background that proves they can accomplish their vision?
