How does OMIF define an emerging artist and can I only apply for emerging artists?

Under OMIF, an emerging artist is defined as an artist or group that has not achieved Gold Album status in Canada in the past 6 years and has had no more than 3 gold albums in their career (Gold Album threshold is currently 40,000 Album Equivalent Units sold). The Gold Record threshold is a useful guide to identify artists at earlier stages in their careers. If you are unsure of an artist’s status, visit https://musiccanada.com/gold-platinum/.

Recognizing that the meaning of “emerging” may vary for different artists/genres/communities, alternative approaches to defining an emerging artist may be considered if accompanied by a sound rationale. Applicants may apply for activities that support artists at all stages in their careers, but funding for emerging artists will be prioritized.

Applicants may apply for activities that support Canadian artists at all stages in their careers, but funding for emerging artists will be prioritized.