ARTIST DEVELOPMENT
Supporting artists through our Incubator program, with pathways to industry exposure and meaningful connections.
106
Artists in our
Community
156
Days of
Professional
Development
188
Performing
Opportunities
143
Mentorship
Opportunities
10
Industry conferences
and events
SMALL WORLD MUSIC INCUBATOR
The Small World Music Incubator is a five-month professional development program designed for newcomer, immigrant, and artists from underrepresented communities who are building their careers in the Greater Toronto Area.
Artists receive industry-led hands-on professional development sessions, peer collaboration spaces, mentorship and curated showcasing and networking opportunities.
Many artists arrive in Canada with strong artistic foundations but limited local networks.
The Small World Music Incubator addresses this gap by offering structure, guidance, and meaningful access to the Canadian music industry.
Currently led by artists, at its core, the Incubator is grounded in peer connection, shared learning, and long-term support
Who Is it for?
Are you:
• A musician or music artist actively building your path in the Canadian music industry?
• A newcomer, refugee, or artist from an underrepresented community?
• A professional artist who is new to Canada’s music scene?
• Someone with a strong artistic foundation but limited local networks?
• Based in the Greater Toronto Area?1
• 19 years of age or older?
The Small World Music Incubator is open to musicians and music artists with a strong foundation in their craft who are ready to intentionally grow their presence within Canada’s music scene.
Applications are open!
Deadline to apply: May 3
Apply NowProgram GuideFAQs
➔ What level of experience should I have?
Artists should have an established artistic practice (released music, performances, ongoing projects, or equivalent experience). The Incubator is designed for artists ready to deepen strategy, expand networks, and accelerate their career.
➔ What type of music do I need to play to apply?
All music genres are welcomed (and celebrated!) We give priority to sounds that represent the diversity of cultures and traditions in our city.
➔ Will I get performing opportunities if I am part of the Incubator?
The Incubator offers curated showcasing opportunities designed to increase visibility and connect artists with audiences and industry professionals.
Showcasing is not automatically guaranteed for all artists. Opportunities depend on programming plans, artistic alignment, and level of engagement in the program. Artists who demonstrate strong commitment and consistent participation (approximately 75% attendance or higher) are typically prioritized.
➔ Can bands apply, or only solo artists?
Solo artists and bands are welcome to apply. One primary representative must commit to participating fully in the program.
➔ What happens after the five months end?
Incubator artists remain part of the Small World Music community after the program ends. Alumni often continue collaborating with cohort members, participate in future programming, and maintain relationships built through the Incubator. Artists are often prioritized for opportunities that arise in the year following their cohort.
➔ Is there a cost to participate?
Thanks to the current support of our partners and funders, the Incubator is free to those artists who get selected.
SUPPORT THE PROGRAM
If you would like to support the Incubator community and the professional development of underrepresented local musicians, please feel free to reach out to liberty@smallworldmusic.com to make a financial contribution.
Donate Today ❤︎