Josplay Rise Fund III is looking for African artists with something to say, a clear artistic direction, and the determination to build an audience. We want to discover music worth hearing and support artists who are ready to take meaningful steps towards growing their careers. When applications open in November, artists will be expected to meet certain crucial criteria. Judges will base their decisions based on the artist’s answers to these questions.
Tell Us About Your Music
Whether you are working on a single, EP, album, or another music project, we want to understand what you are creating and why it matters. Tell us the story behind your music, what makes it different, and what you hope listeners will take away from it. We also want to know how people are responding to your work. This could be your streaming numbers, feedback from fans, live performances, press coverage, or the community you are building around your music. If you are just starting out and do not have impressive numbers yet, that is fine. Tell us what you have learned from the people who have listened to your music so far.
Show Us Where You Want to Go
Every independent artist faces challenges. Tell us what is currently holding your career back and why this is the right time for you to receive support. More importantly, think about what you could achieve in the next 90 days. Set a specific goal that would move your career forward, whether it is reaching new listeners, promoting a release, growing your fanbase, or achieving another meaningful milestone.
Have a Plan for Your Release
Support works best when you know what you want to achieve with it. The judges will want you to explain how you would use the Rise Fund grant to advance the music you have submitted. Tell us what activities you would invest in, who you want to reach, and how your plan could improve your chances of success. We also want to know how you will measure your progress. Think beyond the number of streams. Consider new listeners, engaged fans, audience growth, and other results that could make a real difference to your career.
Let Us See and Hear You
Record a video of no more than 90 seconds answering two questions: What makes your music worth discovering, and what would you do with Rise Fund support? Upload your video to Instagram, X, YouTube Shorts, or Facebook, and include the link in your application. Use #josplayrisefund3 so our selection team can find it. Be honest about any previous funding or significant promotional support you have received for the same release.
Before You Apply
Make sure your information is accurate, that you have the necessary rights or permissions for your music, and that you understand the programme’s terms and conditions. Selection is not guaranteed, and participation may involve audience-building activities, milestones, and performance-based evaluation. Your application is your opportunity to show us your music, your thinking, and what you are prepared to do with the right support. Read: Mistakes to avoid when applying for Rise Fund III Do you have your music on Josplay yet? If no, click HERE to get started.