SUBMISSIONS TIMELINE
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
SUBMIT NOW
NEW IN 2026
RESOURCES
ACCESSIBILITY
SUBMISSION ADJUDICATION & MEMBERSHIP VOTING
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
MusicNL Week Awards and Stages Submissions are now open!
To be considered, music release dates must fall between the eligibility period of April 1, 2025 and July 31, 2026.
SUBMISSIONS TIMELINE
- Wednesday, March 11, 2026 – Intake OPENS for Awards & Stages
- Monday, April 6, 2026 11:59 PM NT – Intake CLOSES for Awards & Stages
- Late June – Stages (showcases) applicants selected and notified
- Early August – Nominees announced and member voting opens
- August TBD – Member voting closes
- Thursday, October 1, 2026 – MusicNL Week opens with the Awards Gala
- October 2, 3, 4, 2026 – MusicNL Week Conference, industry awards and showcases
*Timeline is subject to change. Last updated: March 11, 2026. Please check back here for updates.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
SUBMIT NOW
NEW IN 2026
Here is a summary of what is new in this year’s intake
- Revised intake questions in the Stages application, as per FACTOR export-ready requirements
- Minor changes to Awards and Stages application layout
- For statistical purposes only, demographic information is now collected during application
- AI-generated content is not eligible – submissions must be original work
The above is a short summary; all 2026 changes in the Awards & Stages Guidelines are in BOLD, please read them carefully.
RESOURCES
Whether you’re applying for the first time or just need a refresher, a Good Grants profile (our application platform) is the first step. Watch our webinar on how to create your profile and navigate the platform below.
ACCESSIBILITY
We want to make sure everyone can participate fully. If you require any accommodations during the application process, please reach out to us (at programs@musicnl.ca) as early as possible and we’ll be happy to work with you.
While we’re unable to offer direct application support, we can connect you with a number of helpful resources to guide you through the process. Feel free to reach out to us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
If you are from an equity-deserving community or if the application fee presents a barrier to participation, please contact us before submitting – we are here to work with you.
SUBMISSION ADJUDICATION & MEMBERSHIP VOTING
Our awards selection process is a multi-stage system designed to be thorough and fair, combining expert jury evaluation with member voting to determine the final winners.
The awards selection process moves through four key steps: initial eligibility review, jury evaluation, nominee announcement, and member voting. Final winners are determined by a combined score of 75% jury evaluation and 25% member vote. For a full breakdown of each stage, including information about scoring, check out the complete awards guidelines – and head to our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about how adjudication and voting work.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Dates & Deadlines
When do applications open and close?
Applications open March 11, 2026 and close on Monday April 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM NT.
Is there a webinar to help applicants?
Yes! We have a webinar recording on our Youtube Channel
When will nominees be announced?
Please check the MusicNL Week 2026 timeline here for the most up-to-date information.
When does voting close?
Please check the MusicNL Week 2026 timeline here for the most up-to-date information.
When will showcase artists be announced?
Please check the MusicNL Week 2026 timeline here for the most up-to-date information.
What’s New in 2026
Here is a summary of what’s new in this year’s intake
- Revised intake questions in the Stages application, as per FACTOR export-ready requirements
- Minor changes to Awards and Stages application layout
- For statistical purposes only, demographic information is now collected during application
- AI-generated content is not eligible – submissions must be original work
The above is a short summary; all 2026 changes in the Awards & Stages Guidelines are in BOLD, please read them carefully.
Stages (Showcases) Eligibility Requirements
Who is eligible for Stages (showcases)?
Applicants must:
- Be MusicNL members and residents of NL
- Have released music in Canada AND either:
- Released (or plan to release) music internationally within 12 months, OR
- Have an upcoming tour or showcase outside Atlantic Canada (minimum six dates)
- Have a professional support team (at least one of: artist manager, record label, booking agent, publicist, or publisher)
- Show evidence of public or industry recognition (radio play, video play, web hits/streams, music press, blogs, awards, etc.)
Is there a difference between showcase types?
All MusicNL Week performances are export showcases, designed to promote booking and business opportunities. Performances will take place in venues around downtown St John’s or at the Sheraton hotel.
What is considered “public and industry recognition” for Stages applications?
Recognition can include radio play, video play, web hits and streams, coverage in music press or blogs, awards, playlist placements, or other industry acknowledgments. You should provide concrete examples in your application.
What counts as a “professional support team”?
You must have at least one of the following: artist manager, record label, booking agent, publicist, or publisher. More information is available in the application.
How are showcasing artists selected for Stages?
Applications go through a two-step process. First, they are screened for FACTOR export-ready eligibility, to ensure we meet our funding requirements.
Those who meet the criteria are then reviewed by a jury of diverse industry experts assembled by MusicNL, including past export delegates, and representatives from music organizations and festivals across Canada.
From there, the programming team considers the jury scores with each applicant’s selected export markets (the regions where they are looking to grow their music career) to determine the final programming. Decisions are guided by a commitment to genre variety and diversity and inclusion. Once selection is complete, artists receive a performance offer. After the offer is accepted, a contract will be issued for signature. During this process, a list of ‘alternate’ artists are also selected. They are offered complimentary registration in exchange for being on ‘standby’.
Should an artist decline the performance offer, or cancel after the contract is issued, an artist from the alternate list will be selected.
How will I be notified if I’m selected for a showcase?
Results for stage programming will be communicated via Good Grants broadcast emails. To ensure you receive these notifications, please add no-reply@app.goodgrants.com to your safe sender list, as emails may otherwise be caught in your spam folder or blocked by company firewalls.
What happens if I’m selected for a showcase?
Selected showcase artists will be provided with detailed information about performance dates, technical requirements, promotional opportunities, and other logistics after they sign their performance contract
Why am I being asked to submit a showcase application with a “touring ensemble”? Why can’t I just bring whatever band I want?
All MusicNL Week performances are export showcases. They are designed to connect artists with international bookers and industry delegates. These professionals look for acts that are low-footprint and cost-effective to tour, so artists are expected to present their smallest feasible touring ensemble. Showcasing a large ensemble not only reduces your chances of securing bookings, but with showcases running 20–40 minutes and tight turnovers, a larger setup will eat into your actual performance time. MusicNL reserves the right to request a change in ensemble size to support the best export outcomes.
Awards Eligibility Requirements
What’s the eligibility period for releases?
All submissions must have a commercial release that falls between April 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026
Do I have to be a MusicNL member to apply?
Yes. All applicants must be members in good standing at the time of application and remain active until October 30, 2026.
Do I need to live in Newfoundland & Labrador?
Yes. Applicants must be a current resident of Newfoundland & Labrador. To qualify, you must meet at least one of the two following criteria:
- Currently living, and having resided in the province for a minimum of 6 months preceding the application date
- Filed provincial taxes as a Newfoundland & Labrador resident in the most recent taxation year prior to the application date
For duos/groups, at least 50% of members must reside in NL.
How many singles must I have released to be eligible for Awards?
You must have commercially released at least three (3) singles between April 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026, unless otherwise specified in specific award criteria.
What counts as proof of release?
You must provide documentation such as a manufacturer’s invoice, retail verification, or documentation from a distributor (CD Baby, Distrokid, TuneCore, Bandcamp, etc.), aggregator, record company, or streaming service.
My music is not released yet but will be before July 31, 2026. Can I submit an application for awards?
Yes, you can apply with unreleased material. However, every applicant needs to upload their music and provide proof of the planned release date at the time of submission. All submitted music must be adjudicated by the jury in order to be nominated.
Please note that if your music is not released by July 31, 2026, or if proof of release cannot be provided when requested, your application will not be eligible for nomination.
We understand this requirement may be complex for some artists – please don’t hesitate to reach out to programs@musicnl.ca if you need any assistance.
Can I resubmit an album or single that was nominated last year?
No. Albums and/or singles that were nominated for an award in a specific category cannot be resubmitted for that same award the following year.
Are there any exceptions to the three-single requirement?
Yes. Some categories like L’Artiste Francophone de L’Année, Global Music Artist of the Year, and Indigenous Artist of the Year require three (3) singles released within the last three (3) years rather than within the eligibility period. Music Video of the Year only requires that the video (not the track) was released during the eligibility period.
What happens if a category does not have enough applicants?
A minimum of 3 applications are required for any award category to proceed. If this threshold is not met, applicants will be notified and given the option to have their submission moved to the most suitable alternative category. Additionally, at the next awards intake, the program manager will reach out to request an updated application. In either case, no additional cost will be incurred.
Awards Information
What kinds of awards are available?
There are two categories of awards:
- Music Awards, which are sub-divided into two types
- General Awards (Album of the Year, Solo Artist of the Year, etc.)
- Genre-Specific Awards (Rock, Folk, Jazz, etc.)
- Industry Awards (Manager of the Year, Venue of the Year, etc.)
Full descriptions are available at the 2026 MusicNL Awards and Stages Submission guidelines.
Can I apply in more than one category?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each category. For genre-specific awards, you can only apply for one genre.
What if my genre isn’t listed? How can I be represented in this process?
Contact programs@musicnl.ca to discuss creating a new genre category. MusicNL will consider creating a new category if there are at least 3 eligible submissions.
What is the difference between Songwriter of the Year and Songwriter of the Year (Non-Performer)?
The Ron Hynes Songwriter of the Year award is for songwriters who perform their own material (recording artists), while the Songwriter of the Year (Non-Performer) recognizes those who write material for other artists. Songwriters can be nominated in both categories if eligible, but must submit different songs for each.
For the International Touring Artist of the Year, what documentation do I need?
You should include proof of international touring activities such as venue contracts, ticket sales information, promotional materials, and any press coverage of your international performances during the eligibility period.
What are the requirements for the Sound on Screen Award?
All submitted works must be original compositions created specifically for a screen project that received its first public screening, broadcast, or release during the eligibility period. Previously written music that was synchronized to picture (syncs) is not eligible.
Industry Awards
I see there is a limit on winning multiple times in certain award categories. If I have won the same award in 2024 and 2025, does this mean I have to wait for two years until I apply again?
No. Previous recipients are ineligible for one (1) year following their win, in order to provide opportunities for new submissions to be considered.
Can I apply for multiple industry awards in one application form?
Yes. In the name field, enter the name of the individual, event, or organization you are completing the application for. For each award you select, you will be required to upload a photo specific to that award.
Can I nominate someone for an Industry Award?
Yes. If you’re a MusicNL member interested in suggesting a nominee for these awards, please contact programs@musicnl.ca.
What documentation do I need for Industry Award applications?
Requirements vary by category. For example, Recording Engineer/Producer of the Year applicants must submit three (3) songs released in the eligibility period that they were credited for, while Graphic Artist of the Year requires at least one sample of work. Please consult the 2026 MusicNL Awards and Stages Submission guidelines for full details.
Application Process
Is there a fee to apply?
Yes. Application fees are as follows:
- Awards: $28 per application
- Stages (Showcases): $28 per application
- Industry awards: $28 per application
- BUNDLE:If applying to both (within the same applicant profile), a bundled rate of $45 is available.
If you are from an equity-deserving community or if the application fee presents a barrier to participation, please contact us at programs@musicnl.ca before submitting – we are here to work with you.
How do I apply?
You need to visit our application portal starting March 11, 2026. You will need to:
- Create a profile (one per applicant—individual or group)
- Complete the appropriate application(s) for Awards and/or Stages
- Upload all required materials, including proof of release and any supporting documentation
- Pay the applicable fee(s) before the March 6, 2026 deadline
Can I apply for both Awards and Stages?
Yes, you can apply for both using the same profile on the new platform. Please be aware that MusicNL awards and showcase applications are separate forms. In the application platform you will be asked to select a “category,” Awards or Stages. Each category is a separate application form. You will need to complete first one form (i.e. your award nomination) and then start a new application and select the other “category” to complete that form (i.e. selecting stages to apply for a showcase performance). If you only submit an Award application, without submitting a Stages application, you will not be considered to perform at MusicNL Week 2026.
I need help navigating the new platform. How do I get help?
You can find our webinar on the website and also read the Ultimate Guide for Applicants. If you are having a specific challenge, please take a screenshot of the particular Good Grants section, and send it to programs@musicnl.ca.
Can I edit my application after submission?
No. Once submitted, applications are view-only. Double-check all details before submitting.
Does submitting an application guarantee a nomination?
No. Submitting an application does not guarantee a nomination. All submissions are reviewed for eligibility and then adjudicated by a jury of music industry professionals. Final nominees are selected based on jury scores and, where applicable, MusicNL member voting.
Adjudication & Voting
What happens after I submit?
- Applications are screened for eligibility
- Eligible submissions are juried
- Showcase artists are selected by early June
- Nominees are selected and announced on early August
- Voting closes one week after the nominee announcement
How are nominees selected?
All award nominees are submitted through the MusicNL Awards forms and then selected by a jury panel of Canadian music industry professionals.
How are jury members selected?
MusicNL assembles a diverse panel of industry experts as jurors. Jurors represent key industry roles such as producers, established artists, music educators, representatives from various music organizations, and other qualified participants.
How are applications evaluated and scored?
All awards are evaluated using a standardized 100-point scoring system divided into five categories, with each category worth 20 points. While the specific criteria vary by award type, submissions are generally evaluated on:
General Music Awards (Album, Songwriter, Solo Artist, Group, Music Video, Entertainer, Global Music Artist, Francophone Artist, Indigenous Artist, Side Musician, Rising Star, International Touring Artist, Sound on Screen)
Five Categories (20 points each):
- Creative Vision & Artistic Merit – Originality, innovation, distinctive voice, and artistic impact
- Musical/Technical Excellence – Quality of performance, composition, production, or technical execution (varies by award)
- Growth/Impact/Contribution – Artistic development, community impact, or specific achievement relevant to the award
- Professional Impact & Industry Recognition – Career achievements, awards, press coverage, industry reputation
- Submission Quality – Professionalism, completeness, and clarity of application materials
Genre-Specific Music Awards (All 11 Categories)
Five Categories (20 points each):
- Creative Vision & Artistic Merit – Unique voice and innovation within the genre
- Musical Excellence & Production Quality – Songwriting, arrangements, recording quality, mixing, production craftsmanship
- Artistic Impact & Genre Contribution – Influence on the genre, creative development, advancement of the musical style
- Professional Impact & Industry Recognition – Career achievements, awards, press coverage, peer reputation
- Submission Quality – Professionalism and completeness of materials
Industry Awards (Event, Artist Manager, Graphic Artist, Industry Professional, Media Person, Music Educator, Recording Engineer, Volunteer, Outstanding Company, Venue)
Five Categories (20 points each):
- Excellence in Primary Role – Quality of work, creative vision, or professional execution specific to the award
- Innovation/Strategy/Support – Innovative approaches, strategic initiatives, or exceptional support provided
- Impact & Development – Measurable impact on artists, community, or industry development
- Professional Recognition & Standing – Industry reputation, achievements, awards, peer appreciation
- Submission Quality – Professionalism and completeness of materials
What is the scoring scale that jurors are using?
- 20 points: Extraordinary
- 15-19 points: Excellent
- 10-14 points: Good
- 5-9 points: Fair
The total possible score is 100 points. Jurors evaluate each category independently and use the full range of the scoring scale to ensure fair and consistent evaluation across all submissions.
After the jury scores the applications, how are nominees selected?
Once all jurors have completed their evaluations, the scores for each submission are compiled and averaged across all jurors. The top 6 highest-scoring applicants in each award category are selected as official nominees (the Fan’s Choice award selects the top 10).
In cases where applicants have tied scores at the nomination threshold, all tied candidates are nominated, which may result in more than 6 nominees in a category.
The number of nominees also varies based on the total number of qualified submissions—if fewer than 6 qualified applications are submitted for a category, all qualified applicants become nominees.
Nominees are then announced publicly and advance to member voting to determine the award winners.
How does membership voting work?
MusicNL members vote for their choice in each category, with votes weighted as follows:
- Individual & Student – one (1) vote per award
- Duo – two (2) votes per award
- Non-Profit, Business, and Venue – four (4) votes per award
- Group Memberships – four (4) votes per award
How are final winners selected?
MusicNL staff tallies the jury scores along with the MusicNL membership votes. The final score is made up of 75% of the jury score and 25% of the membership vote. Fan’s Choice is decided by a combination of jury (75%) and public voting (25%).
After this process is complete, can I get the jury score and feedback?
While we’re happy to offer feedback to funding applicants, we unfortunately don’t have the capacity to provide this for Awards & Stages submissions.
Accessibility
What if I need to request an accommodation for the application process?
We want to make sure everyone can participate fully. If you require any accommodations during the application process, please reach out to us (at programs@musicnl.ca) as early as possible and we’ll be happy to work with you.
Can MusicNL help me complete an application?
While we’re unable to offer direct application support, we can connect you with a number of helpful resources to guide you through the process. Feel free to reach out to us at programs@musicnl.ca and we’ll point you in the right direction
Contact Information
Who do I contact with questions?
Feel free to reach out to us at programs@musicnl.ca – we’re always happy to help!
Where can I find more information?
Visit our Awards & Stages submissions website page for complete guidelines, criteria, and application information.