JB Seed Grant announces new grants

We continue to finetune our program categories to be responsive to the full scope of what emerging artists really need, to identify and implement their visions and support their endeavours.

In order to empower artists, and arts workers to effectively represent themselves in the industry and become self sufficient, we strive to operate, according to the philosophy: “Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day, teach him how to fish and he’ll eat forever”.

Consequently in October 2006, John, Danielle, and their vision for the JB Seed, to hold a Management workshop came to fruition when a team of people gathered at the iconic Clarendon Hotel in Katoomba. Twenty successful applicants from around the country spent three solid days, living in house and hearing from industry experts representing various sectors of the music business in an environment which encompassed both group and individual consultations. Professionals generously donated their time and knowledge with a wealth of advice on the machinations of the music business, whilst the attendees gained an incredible insight, addressing their challenges as budding managers whilst subsequently creating a national emerging managers network.

See www.thejbseed.com for a press release specific to the event.

Also in 2006, The JB Seed continued to widen categories for funding and offered assistance in areas such as Indigenous Touring, Publicity and Marketing, Social Activism and Professional Skills Development.

2007 sees The JB Seed Arts Grants Program enter into its third year and yet again it broadens the horizon. We are pleased to announce categories are now open, and along with the introduction of a special Hip Hop competition, will include the return of last year’s very rewarding and successful Management workshop category.

The programs which will be supported by The JB Seed Fund for 2007 are:• SPEAK: INDIGENOUS HIP HOP COMPETITION
This program will provide opportunities for Indigenous Hip Hop artists with original material, to record a 5 track EP. You will collaborate with Buchman (aka Tony Buchen) to produce, arrange, record, mix and master your music in his studio in Sydney. We will provide and arrange transport, accommodation and living expenses whilst recording, and provide a budget for artwork and manufacturing 1000 copies of your EP. • SOCIAL ACTIVISM THROUGH THE ARTS PROGRAM - Grants of up to $5,000
This program embraces all art forms and supports initiatives that serve to educate, create debate and awareness on particular social issues.  This year we are focusing on:
Nuclear debate: Projects that explore the impact on Australia of uranium mining, nuclear testing, nuclear weapons, nuclear waste and its disposal.
Indigenous insight: Projects that explore the experiences of Indigenous people, within today’s Australian social climate, and provide an insight into the day to day celebrations, tragedies, challenges and triumphs of Indigenous communities. This category is open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists. • PROFESSIONAL AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM - Grants of up to $3,000 This program is open to musicians and music technicians who wish to enhance their skill base or career choices, by undertaking a mentorship or further study with a recognised practitioner of excellence. This program can occur within Australia, or if the expertise exists only overseas, in an international setting. • THE JB SEED INITIATIVE: MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP - 20 opportunities available This program addresses practical strategies for managing a band or performer in the establishment phase of their career.  The workshop will bring together a group of significant professionals in the music industry, including managers, distributors, radio promoters, radio representatives, publicists, lawyers, grant writers, publishers and artists to share their knowledge and offer strategic advice on ways to enhance performers’ opportunities in the music industry. This initiative will be delivered in an intensive three-day workshop format, complemented by customised personal advice. The program will arrange and provide successful applicants with transport, accommodation and food.FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE JB SEED IN 2006, WE WISH TO ACKNOWLEDGE; The Cat Empire, Missy Higgins, The Waifs, Philip Stevens Management, John Watson Management, Correne Wilkie Management, Sebastian Chase and Kylie Greenlees of MGM distribution, Paul Gilding and Michelle Grosvenor of ECOS, Brett Oaten Solicitors, Paul Mason AMRAP & CBAA, Owen Orford Trading Post Agency, Stuart Watters of A.I.R., Simon Moor - Sony/ATV Publishing, Kirileigh Lynch of triple j, Paula ‘jonesy’ Jones - jones PR, Russell Thomas of Kaos Management, Sally Howland of APRA, Monique Lisa of CBAR Media and Chrissie Vincent Publicity, Phil Tripp of Immedia and the Australian Business Arts Foundation. We invite artists and associates to contribute and become a part of the movement that is the JB Seed in 2007. The JB Seed is auspiced through the Australian Business Arts Foundation and therefore contributions to the grant program are tax deductible.

Expressions of interest are currently being accepted for The JB Seed Arts Grants Program 2007 and close on 16th March 2007. For further information, go to: www.thejbseed.com or  email: grants@thejbseed.com