Open call: CAPASSO new CSI initiative

The CSI initiative operates independently from CAPASSO’s day-to-day activities and is overseen by an external committee made up of industry professionals. The committee will assess submitted proposals and allocate funding to eligible recipients.

According to CAPASSO, the initiative reflects its intention to expand its role beyond the administration of mechanical royalties by supporting projects that contribute to a stronger and more sustainable music ecosystem. Applicants may submit proposals aligned with one of three pillars:

• Education: Projects offering access to skills development, training, workshops or certified courses for emerging and established music professionals.
• Empowerment: Initiatives that help creators develop sustainable careers, including mentorship, support for creative work, or activities that promote fair remuneration and intellectual property awareness.
• Fostering growth: Projects that advance the broader music industry, such as research, community-building, industry events or innovation-driven initiatives.

Additional project categories eligible for funding include music events, women-centred initiatives in the sector, and community upliftment projects that benefit disadvantaged groups.

CAPASSO CEO Jotam Matariro said the programme aims to strengthen the environment in which musicians and music communities operate, noting the organisation’s hope that the initiative will contribute to long-term sector development.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be CAPASSO members, either directly or through a publisher.
• Have earned at least R350 in royalties.
• Be based in South Africa.
• Disclose any other sources of funding.

Application process

Interested members are required to submit a detailed proposal outlining the project’s purpose, need for support, and intended use of funds. Successful applicants will be expected to acknowledge the partnership publicly and provide a report with receipts showing how the funding was used.

Proposals must be submitted via the application form and sent to [email protected] by 25 November 2025. Successful applicants will be contacted with further guidance.

For more information, applicants may email [email protected] or call 011 447 8870.

View the original call here.