List of COVID Relief Funds for Musicians

The Actors Fund
The Actors Fund offers a variety of services for entertainment workers, including those in the music industry. Services include emergency financial assistance, affordable housing, health care, and insurance counseling, senior care, and secondary career development.

American Association of Independent Music
A2IM is surveying indie music companies about how the coronavirus pandemic is disrupting their businesses. The results will inform the organization’s discussions with the New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, as well as its investigations of federal assistance programs.

American Federation of Musicians
The AFM is calling on Congress to provide immediate economic relief on behalf of musicians and other working people in the midst of the crisis, including expanded unemployment benefits and a moratorium on evictions, foreclosures and utility shut-offs. The organization has a resource page providing more information. Additionally, disabled AFM members can apply for financial aid through its longstanding Petrillo Memorial Fund.

American Guild of Musical Artists Relief Fund
Any AGMA member in good standing is invited to apply for financial assistance under the AGMA Relief Fund, which has temporarily doubled the amount of assistance available to those in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

Americans for the Arts Coronavirus Survey
This five-minute survey was created to collect information on the financial and human impacts of the pandemic on arts and cultural organizations.

Artist Relief
A coalition of national arts grantmakers (including Academy of American Poets, Artadia, Creative Capital, Foundation for Contemporary Arts, MAP Fund, National YoungArts Foundation, and United States Artists) launched this $10 million relief fund, which will provide $5,000 grants to artists facing “dire financial emergencies” due to the pandemic. The coalition has also joined forces with Americans for the Arts to co-launch an impact survey to better identify the needs of artists and creative workers.

Artist Relief Project
Anyone pursuing the arts as a career (any discipline, any level of experience) can request financial support from the Artist Relief Project, which will provide applicants on a first-come, first-serve basis with a one-time emergency stipend of $200 and free resources and support to pursue alternative economic opportunities. The Artist Relief Project is an initiative by Artly World Nonprofit.  It is a registered nonprofit based in Austin, with the mission to empower children, families, and communities through creative arts initiatives and opportunities.

Artist Relief Tree*
Anyone who is an artist can request funds from the Artist Relief Tree, which plans to fulfill every request with a flat $250 on a first-come-first-serve basis. The fund is currently not accepting new requests until it can secure more funding, but if you would like to be informed if and when the opportunity becomes available again, click here.

ASCAP Music Unites Us*
Performance-rights organization ASCAP has launched a site to help its songwriter, composer, and music publisher members stay connected and financially stable during this uncertain time. It includes information on how to receive ASCAP royalties through direct deposit, an online works registration application, access to free mental health services for ASCAP members, and more.

Audio Assemble*
Music education hub Audio Assemble has put together a list of online remote opportunities for U.S.-based musicians during the COVID-19 outbreak, including both short-term and long-term job opportunities. It is also raising money for its first live streaming music festival, PLUGGED IN, set for April 8-10. Musicians can apply for paid opportunities to perform during the livestream here.

Backline
Backline was established to connect music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness providers. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the organization has established a virtual support group that plans to meet regularly via the Zoom app.

Blues Foundation*
The Blues Foundation launched an emergency relief fund for full-time blues musicians whose revenue streams have been severely diminished by the pandemic. Find out how to request funding here. Meanwhile, the foundation’s longstanding HART Fund also helps underinsured or uninsured blues musicians and their families in financial need due to a range of health concerns.

Convertkit Creator Fund*
What began as a $50,000 fund for active creators experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 has now reached $154,000 in funding. The fund covers up to $500 per creator to help cover medical, childcare, housing or grocery needs. As of March 18, the fund has received more than 6,000 applications, and the website notes, “Our current fund will be exhausted well before we can get to everyone.”

COVID-19 Music Production Response Group*
A Facebook group meant as an “open forum for constructive debate about the effects of COVID-19 on music production industry professionals,” according to administrators. It’s nearly 4,000 members (as of March 18) are sharing news updates, suggested actions, job opportunities, and other resources.

COVID-19 Mutual Aid Fund for LGBTQI+ BIPOC Folks (GoFundMe)*
This more than $70,000 fund prioritizes LGBTQI+, non-binary, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming people of color whose livelihoods have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The first round of funding closed on March 17, but organizers say they plan to continue to raise funds through mid-April.

Crew Nation*
Live Nation has donated an initial $5 million to launch this global relief fund for live music crews, and will match the next $5 million in donations as well. Check back here for the funding application to come.

Equal Sound Corona Relief Fund*
Equal Sound, an organization that strives to break down traditional genre boundaries through events and advocacy, is inviting musicians who have lost income due to the pandemic to apply for funds. Applicants must provide proof they had a confirmed concert canceled over the coronavirus to receive the money.

Facebook Small Business Grants Program*
In response to the pandemic, Facebook is offering $100 million in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses around the world, including music and live events businesses. More details to come (you can sign up for updates here). Facebook also has a new Business Resource Hub to help small businesses prepare for and manage disruptions like COVID-19.

Fannie Mae COVID-19 Mortgage Relief*
In addition to foreclosure and eviction relief offered by the federal CARES Act, the government-sponsored loan servicer is offering mortgage relief for homeowners who have experienced job loss, income reduction or sickness due to COVID-19. Options include payment relief through forbearance, late fee relief, repayment plans and permanent loan modifications to maintain or reduce monthly payments. Fannie Mae’s Disaster Response Network also offers both homeowners and renters help with the broader financial challenges posed by the coronavirus by providing access to HUD-approved housing counselors who can create personalized action plans, offer financial coaching and budgeting and more.

Foundation for Contemporary Arts*
The New York-based foundation has created a temporary fund for experimental artists of all disciplines who have been adversely impacted by the pandemic. It is disbursing one-time $1,000 grants to artists who have had performances canceled or postponed. Apply here.

Freddie Mac COVID-19 Mortgage Relief*
The government-sponsored loan servicer is offering a variety of mortgage relief options during the pandemic, including forbearance, waiving penalty and late fee assessments, halting all foreclosures and evictions living in Freddie Mac-owned homes until at least May 17, 2020 and offering loan modifications to maintain or lower payments.

Freelance Coop Emergency Fund*
The Freelance Coop, which connects creative freelancers with business resources, created an emergency fund for freelancers adversely affected by the pandemic. Examples of funding usage are unexpected childcare costs due to school closures, client cancellations, and medical expenses due to the virus itself. As of March 18, the fund had $35,279 in requests and $5,299.69 raised, and is continuing to call for donations to keep up with demand.

Freelancers Relief Fund*
The Freelancers Union has set up a relief fund for freelance workers through its nonprofit subsidiary Working Today. The fund, which is accepting donations now, will provide grants of up to $1,000 per household to freelancers experiencing economic hardship as a result of the pandemic. Applications open on April 2.

Gospel Music Trust Fund
Individuals working in the gospel music field can submit a request for financial assistance to the Gospel Music Trust Fund, which grants funding in the event “of an emergency or major catastrophe, terminal or severe illness,” according to their website.

HealthCare.gov Special Enrollment
Though no emergency special enrollment period has officially been instituted by the federal health insurance exchange due to the coronavirus outbreak, uninsured people are being invited to inquire about their eligibility for a special enrollment in light of the virus.

Independent Venue Week*
Non-profit organization Independent Venue Week has compiled a list of indie music venues that have launched GoFundMe and other fundraising campaigns to stay afloat during the nation-wide closures.

International Bluegrass Music Association’s BlueGrass Trust Fund
Current or former bluegrass music professionals can apply here for financial grants and loans, which are generally between $500 and $5,000. The association has also created a coronavirus-specific resource page.

Jazz Foundation of America Musicians’ Emergency Fund
This fund offers financial support, housing assistance and pro bono medical care for musicians who have made a living playing blues, jazz and roots music.

Larrosa Music Group Financing Program*
Larrosa Music Group has set up a special financing program for music professionals affected by the pandemic. The maximum term is one year for a maximum amount of $20,000, with interest rates ranging from 7.5 to 10 percent. The program is open to session and live musicians; anyone who collects royalties through PROs or distribution companies; and agencies, producers, record labels and publishers who manage musicians and can provide proof of cancellations of shows, recordings or other remunerated activity as well as verify income of at least $2,500 in the last 12 months. Applications are open until May 1. (Note that the web page is in Spanish but can be translated.)

League of American Orchestras
America’s only national service organization devoted solely to orchestras, the League has set up a landing page of resources to assist affected orchestra workers during the pandemic, including advocacy campaigns, fundraising resources, a discussion group and more.

Leveler.info*
The “peer-to-peer wealth distribution” service is a tool for salaried workers to donate funds across a database of freelancers, service industry and gig economy workers who are impacted by coronavirus health and safety restrictions.

Missed Tour*
Artists and bands who have been displaced from touring due to the pandemic can list their merchandise on this site to help offset lost revenue — with zero charges or fees. Apply to be added to the site here.

MusiCares*
The Recording Academy and its charitable foundation MusiCares have committed $2 million in total to a COVID-19 Relief Fund, established to assist those in the music community who have been affected by the pandemic. People can donate and apply for assistance by navigating to the fund’s official web page.

Music Health Alliance
The Nashville-based Music Health Alliance provides healthcare support services to uninsured members of the music industry.

Musicians Foundation
The New York-based nonprofit established a new emergency grant program in response to the pandemic, offering all eligible applicants up to $200 each. After receiving an “immense volume of applications,” the foundation placed a temporary hold on all applications on March 13. Check this page for updates.

Music Maker Relief Foundation
The foundation, which provides ongoing support to American artists 55 and older who live in chronic poverty, also gives out emergency grants to artists in crisis. It is now soliciting donations to ensure the stability of vulnerable elderly musicians during the pandemic.

#MusicUnited
Music workers in need of financial help during the crisis can apply for assistance at this volunteer-run website, which was set up to facilitate peer-to-peer giving. Applications are reviewed and posted within 24 hours, and 100% of all donations go directly to the affected person. Musicians are also urged to list their virtual concerts on the site.

New Music Solidarity Fund*
This artist-led initiative is granting emergency funding to freelance musicians “working in new creative, experimental or improvised music” who have been adversely impacted by the coronavirus crisis. The fund has already raised more than $130,000 and beginning on March 31, eligible artists may apply for grants of up to $500.

NOMAD Fundraiser for the Touring Crew (GoFundMe)*
Touring manager Frank Fanelli is aiming to raise $20,000 for touring crew members and roadies who have lost income due to gig cancellations and postponements. Donations close at the end of March.

Patreon What the Fund Grant Program
The crowd-funding platform has set up a grant program to benefit select artists who have been impacted by the coronavirus. Patreon itself kickstarted the fund by donating $10,000 and is currently accepting contributions. Grant recipients will be chosen by a board of fellow creators.

Pinetop Perkins Foundation’s Assistance League
PAL provides financial assistance to elderly musicians for medical and living expenses. Preference is given to blues artists, though musicians in other genres may be eligible depending on available funds.

PLUS1 Covid-19 Relief Fund*
In response to the devastating COVID-19 outbreak, PLUS1 has launched a PLUS1 COVID-19 Relief Fund to coordinate our efforts to support those in our community most at risk from the pandemic. PLUS1 is working with leading non-profit organizations and several local organizations around the country to provide immediate assistance to musicians and music industry workers for medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food and other vital living expenses to those impacted due to sickness or loss of work.

Record Union Wellness Starter Pack
In coordination with industry experts, the digital music distributor created this “toolbox for wellbeing” for overwhelmed music professionals. Thought not specific to the coronavirus, the Wellness Starter Pack includes guides to mindfulness, nutrition, positivity, sleep and exercise that can help lower stress, anxiety and depression levels during the shutdown.

SAG-AFTRA COVID-19 Disaster Fund*
SAG-AFTRA members who are in an emergency financial crisis related to coronavirus may request assistance to cover basic expenses like rent, mortgage, utilities and medical bills. To apply to the fund, members must have paid their dues through October 2019.

Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
The Small Business Administration has designated COVID-19 as a qualifying event for economic injury disaster loans. However, you must be located in a “declared disaster area” to apply for assistance. Check if your state qualifies here.

Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program*
Established by the recently-passed CARES Act relief package, this $349 billion loan program through the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers loans to small businesses so they can continue paying their workers. Loans are also eligible for sole proprietors, independent contractors and self-employed individuals.

Soundfly
Online music course hub Soundfly has put together a free Guide to Learning Things Effectively Online for musicians in quarantine who want to continue learning or practicing skills virtually.

SoundGirls Coronavirus Relief Fund*
SoundGirls, an organization which supports women working in professional audio and music production, is offering $100 gift cards to live event production workers who have been put out of work due to the pandemic.

Sound Royalties*
In light of the crisis, music finance firm Sound Royalties is allocating $20 million to offer a no-cost royalty advance funding option through May 16. Songwriters, performing artists, producers and other creators with royalty income can apply for cash advances on a one-year repayment schedule, cost-free.

Sweet Relief COVID-19 Fund*
Sweet Relief has established a donor-directed fund to be used specifically for musicians and music industry workers affected by the coronavirus. Funds will go towards medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food and other vital living expenses for those who get sick or lose work due to the pandemic.

Tour Support*
Tour Support, a mental health nonprofit for the live music industry, is offering independent touring contractors whose tours have been postponed or cancelled one month of free online therapy through Better Help (apply here). In addition, Shading the Limelight is offering the Tour Support community two free weeks of emotional wellness coaching (email [email protected] for an appointment). Check the Tour Support Twitter for more updates to come.

Viral Music — Because Kindness is Contagious*
Independent musicians are invited to use this more than 21,000-member Facebook support group to connect with music fans. “Use this joint to post links to your merch store, online shows, Patreon, or online music lessons,” organizers write. “If you’ve had a gig cancelled, post the city and your Venmo/PayPal — many of us would love to pass along our ticket refunds to you.”

Winston House Creative Community Fund*
This site pairs people in the music industry in need of financial help with people who wish to donate money through Venmo or Paypal. So far, it has made more than 5,000 matches. Apply to get paired with a donor here.

Alabama:

Alabama Department of Labor
Alabama residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Alaska:

Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Alaska residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Arizona:

Arizona Department of Economic Security
Arizona residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Tucson Musicians COVID19 Relief (GoFundMe)*
With a $25,000 goal, this local fund is focusing on individual artists only (not bands, groups or organizations).

Arkansas:

Arkansas Division of Workforce Services
Arkansas residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

California:

AFM Local 47 COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund*
AFM Local 47’s executive board established this relief fund for Los Angeles-based members who have lost revenue due to coronavirus-related work stoppages from an employer with a contract or collective bargaining agreement with the union. Members may submit an application for up to two service sets lost, in the amount of $75 per service set, for a maximum of $150. Local 47 also has a preexisting, non-COVID-19 relief fund for members suffering from illness or injury or who are unable to afford basic necessities like food or rent. The maximum grant from that fund is $500, with exceptions made in cases of a catastrophic event or illness.

California Employment Development Department
California residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Covered California Special Enrollment
California’s health insurance exchange is allowing uninsured people to apply for coverage outside the open enrollment period due to the pandemic. All eligible individuals can sign up for coverage with a private insurer or Medi-Cal through June 30.

California Jazz Foundation
This foundation offers financial assistance and emergency medical referrals to California-based jazz artists.

City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs COVID-19 Arts Emergency Relief Fund*
This program offers emergency relief grants to Los Angeles-based dance, music and theatre artists, as well as small ensembles, who have had public performances, shows or concerts cancelled. Events must have been scheduled to take place at a venue within the City of Los Angeles, open to the general public, publicly advertised and slated for anytime between March 16 and May 16, 2020. If postponed rather than cancelled, events must also have been delayed until after August 30, 2020. Solo artists are eligible for up to $400 and ensembles up to $1,200; applications will be accepted until approximately 450 applications are received or until May 1, 2020, whichever comes first. Round One is not open to artists who were scheduled to perform pieces within a festival or at a private function, or who teach private solo or group lessons. More information is available here.

Jewish Free Loan Association*
The association is offering no-fee and interest-free loans to residents of Los Angeles or Ventura County who are affected by the crisis. The loans cover lost wages, childcare costs due to cancelled school, funds lost due to cancelled travel plans and more.

LA Mayor’s Economic Relief Package*
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced an $11 million economic relief package for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Small businesses anchored in the city of Los Angeles can apply for no-fee microloans of $5,000–$20,000 that may be used to cover working capital. The program will offer relaxed underwriting with no credit score minimum, a generous allowance to meet debt service and a 100% loan-to-value ratio. Small businesses can apply here.

Los Angeles Live Music Community Fund (GoFundMe)*
Music consulting firm Electronic Creatives launched this fund to raise money for Los Angeles-based artists, musicians, audio/playback engineers, techs, tour managers, production managers and others in the touring industry. Apply for a portion of the funds raised here.

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Need food? Visit the L.A. Regional Food Bank’s pantry locator here. The organization says it is continuing — and stepping up — operations during the crisis, and you can check for updates and more information here.

Music Fund of Los Angeles Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund*
Los Angeles-based members of the AFM who have lost revenue due to work stoppages in light of coronavirus may submit an application for up to two service sets lost, in the amount of $75 per service set, for a maximum total of $150.

Opera San José Artists and Musicians Relief Fund*
The opera company has set up an emergency cash reserve to support the “musicians, singers, carpenters, stitchers, designers and other hourly company members” that make its productions possible.

Project Angel Food
This organization prepares and delivers healthy meals to people in Los Angeles County impacted by serious illness, including COVID-19. If you or a loved one is ill, call the Project Angel Food client services hotline at (323) 856-1810 to begin the registration process.

Colorado:

Colorado Artist Relief Fund*
This fund is providing grants of up to $1,000 to individual Colorado artists whose incomes are adversely affected by the cancellation of events, classes, performances and other creative work. On April 8, the fund temporarily froze applications due to overwhelming response, but organizers say it will re-open shortly.

Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
Colorado residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Connect for Health Colorado Special Enrollment
Coloradans who are either uninsured or at risk of losing their insurance can apply for health coverage with the state’s exchange during an emergency special enrollment period between March 20 and April 3.

The NoCO Music Relief Fund*
Northern Colorado musicians and individuals who work in contemporary popular music, including the self-employed and sole proprietors, are eligible for up to $1,000 in emergency relief grants through this fund, which is managed by the Bohemian Foundation.

Connecticut:

Access Health CT Special Enrollment
Qualified uninsured Connecticut residents can apply for health coverage on the state exchange during an emergency special enrollment period until April 2.

Connecticut Department of Labor
Connecticut residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

New Haven Creative Sector Relief Fund*
This fund, a partnership between the City of New Haven’s Department of Cultural Affairs and the Arts Council of Greater New Haven, distributes immediate financial assistance to low-income creatives (of all disciplines, including music) and arts institutions adversely affected by the pandemic. Applications are reviewed weekly, with one-time grants of up to $1,000 distributed immediately via Paypal or check.

Delaware:

Delaware Department of Labor
Delaware residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Florida:

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
Florida residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Georgia:

Goodr*
Thanks to a $100,000 donation from Quality Control Music, Goodr — a company that helps restaurants donate surplus food to people in need — is providing free grocery deliveries to up to 1,000 Atlanta families in need during this critical time. Families in the Metro Atlanta Area with children and seniors are encouraged to submit a request for for delivery here.

Garrie Vereen Memorial Emergency Relief Fund

Set up by the musician-focused suicide prevention organization Nuçi’s Space in Athens, Georgia and named after Widespread Panic’s late equipment manager, this fund has been reestablished to support the local entertainment industry during the pandemic.

Georgia Department of Labor
Georgia residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Hawaii:

Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
Hawaii residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Idaho:

Idaho Department of Labor
Idaho residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Illinois:

Chicago Artists Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
An independent group of artists in the Chicago area is more than halfway to its goal of raising $50,000 for local artists impacted by the crisis (including not just musicians but painters, dancers, actors and more). Due to overwhelming response, applications have been temporarily suspended; check the application page for updates.

Chicago Blues Revival
Chicago Blues Revival has set up a website called Pay the Musicians with links to live performances by some of the city’s great blues players and their PayPal IDs so fans can donate money they might have spent going to a concert directly to musicians. Fans can also donate directly to Chicago Blue Revival, which will distribute the funds to all the musicians evenly.

Illinois Department of Employment Security
Illinois residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Indiana:

Arts Council of Indianapolis* 

The Indy Arts & Culture COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund was created for individuals working in the arts sector and impacted by the current public health crisis. Primary concern is for the health and well being of individuals: specifically independent artists and staff working for small-to-midsize nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. This fund will provide rapid response $500 grants to help bridge the severe lost wages that make many in our creative community vulnerable. Arts Council of Indianapolis has raised $275,000 for a new fund. Head here for more information.

Fort Wayne Bar Aid (GoFundMe)*
Between March 26 and April 5, Fort Wayne musicians will livestream sets at venues across the city to raise money for servers and bartenders at those venues, who have been put out of work due to the pandemic. Learn how to join the effort here, and check the event Facebook page for updates.

HI-FI and MOKB Presents Staff Fundraiser (GoFundMe)*

Individuals can support the staff of Indiana’s HI-FI venue and concert promoter MOKB Presents via this GoFundMe page. Note that because the fundraiser isn’t benefitting a nonprofit organization, donations won’t qualify as tax-deductible.

Indiana Department of Workforce Development
Illinois residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Indiana Music Industry Relief Fund*
This fund from Bloomington nonprofit MidWay Music Speaks was set up specifically for women-identifying and non-binary musicians, music industry professionals, and non-profit music organizations based in the state of Indiana that are affected by loss of work, cancellations, and loss of revenue due to COVID-19. Apply for funds here.

Indy Chamber Rapid Response Hub
The Indy Chamber Rapid Response Hub is connecting small businesses with resources on how to weather the economic impacts, from direct SBA lending to advise on legal, business operations, government and more questions.

Indy Service Workers List
Local entrepreneur and founder of Boardable and Musical Family Tree, Jeb Banner, created this Indy Service Workers List so people could directly “tip” service workers, many of whom are also musicians and artists. The service workers provide their place of work, position and Venmo information so others can send money directly to them.

Iowa:

Iowa Workforce Development
Illinois residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Kansas:

Kansas Department of Labor
Illinois residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Kentucky:

Kentucky Career Center
Kentucky residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Louisiana:

Culture Aid NOLA
The New Orleans nonprofit is providing meals to workers in the entertainment and hospitality industries who have been affected by the pandemic. Due to overwhelming demand, the organization has paused signups for the program until it can “come up with a plan to get food to more people.” Check this page for updates.

Louisiana Workforce Commission
Louisiana residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Meals for Musicians & Service Industry at the Howlin’ Wolf*
This New Orleans-based program is offering food vouchers to affected musicians and service workers. Premade meals will be available for curbside pickup every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 2 p.m. at the Howlin’ Wolf Den. Those interested can email [email protected] for more information.

New Orleans Business Alliance Fund for Gig Economy Workers*
The New Orleans Business Alliance has committed $100,000 to initiate a relief fund for gig economy workers impacted by the pandemic, with a goal of increasing the fund’s assets to at least $500,000 by soliciting the help of business leaders, philanthropists and other New Orleanians.

Second Harvest Food Bank Drive Up Food Pantry*
South Louisiana’s Second Harvest Food Bank and New Orleans City Council member Kristin Gisleson Palmer will be providing a free drive-up food pantry for gig economy workers, hospitality workers and seniors affected by the coronavirus at a variety of locations around New Orleans through March 27. You can find a full schedule here.

Maine:

Maine Department of Labor
Maine residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Maryland:

Maryland Department of Labor
Maryland residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Maryland Health Connection Special Enrollment
The state’s health insurance exchange has instituted an emergency special enrollment period for uninsured residents through April 15.

Massachusetts (Boston):

Boston Artist Relief Fund*
In partnership with the Boston Center for the Arts, the City of Boston has established an artist relief fund that will award grants of $500 and $1,000 to individual artists living in Boston whose “creative practices and incomes” are being negatively affected by the pandemic. Priority will be given to lower-income artists as well as those who have not received funds from city-led grants during the current fiscal year.

Boston Music Maker Relief Fund*
The Record Co. has established a fund to provide financial relief to music makers living in Boston who have lost revenue due to gig cancellations over the coronavirus. Grants of up to $200 will be made available to applicants who meet the criteria.

Boston Singers’ Resource COVID-19 Emergency Relief*
The career services nonprofit is offering one-time grants of up to $500 for New England-based classical singers who have lost income due to coronavirus-related cancellations. The deadline for the first round of grants is April 1.

Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance
Massachusetts residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Massachusetts Health Connector Special Enrollment
Massachusetts’ state health insurance exchange is offering extended enrollment for uninsured resident through April 25 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Music Streams Calendar
This site provides a calendar of livestreams in the Massachusetts and New England area, plus links to merch sites and virtual tip jars. Email [email protected] to be added.

Passim Emergency Artist Relief Fund*
Cambridge folk music venue and nonprofit Club Passim is offering grants of up to $500 for artists who have played a gig at Passim or taught in its School of Music sometime in the past 10 years. Artists who receive funding will also be asked to participate in the nonprofit’s ongoing, virtual Keep Your Distance Fest.

Michigan:

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Michigan residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Michigan Music Alliance Artist Relief Fund*
Applications open March 20 for this fund, which will support Michigan-based musical artists who have lost income due to coronavirus-related gig cancellations. People can either donate directly or buy T-shirts and beanies, with proceeds from the sales going directly toward the fund. Musicians suffering from severe financial impact and immediate need will be prioritized.

Minnesota:

Minnesota Unemployment Insurance
Minnesota residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

MNSure Special Enrollment for Health Insurance
Minnesota’s health insurance exchange has opened up a special enrollment period for uninsured residents through April 21.

Springboard for the Arts Personal Emergency Relief Fund
Nonprofit Springboard for the Arts has committed an additional $10,000 to its emergency fund, and expanded guidelines to include lost income due to coronavirus-related gig cancellations. Artists based in Minnesota can request up to $500 to compensate for canceled work that was scheduled and lost. The organization’s homepage also links to several resources, including a guide to principles for ethical event cancellation.

Twin Cities Music Community Trust’s Entertainment Industry Relief Fund*
This fund is for local, individual industry workers and musicians in need of financial assistance due to the crisis. Apply here.

Mississippi:

Mississippi Department of Employment Security
Mississippi residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Missouri:

Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
Missouri residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

St. Louis Music and Arts Fund (GoFundMe)*
Created by Native Sound Recording’s Ben Majchrzak, this fund has been set up to help artists who have lost income due to the pandemic with rent, food and other expenses. Each applicant who meets the guidelines is eligible for up to $250.

Montana:

Montana Department of Labor and Industry
Montana residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Nebraska:

Nebraska Department of Labor
Nebraska residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Nevada:

Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation
Nevada residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Nevada Health Link
Nevada’s health insurance exchange is offering a limited special enrollment period through April 15 for uninsured residents.

New Hampshire:

New Hampshire Employment Security
New Hampshire residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

New Jersey:

New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
New Jersey residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

New Mexico:

New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
New Mexico residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

New Mexico Musicians Relief Fund Amid COVID-19 (GoFundMe)*
Freelance classical musician and music educator Thomas Goodrich organized this fund, with a goal of raising $30,000 to help New Mexico musicians who have been financially impacted by coronavirus-related cancellations. Priority will be given to artists of color, LGBTQ and non-binary artists, and disabled artists. Apply here.

New York:

AFM Local 802 Musicians Emergency Relief Fund
The Local 802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund, administered by the Musicians’ Assistance Program, has earmarked a “significant portion” of its cash reserves to assist freelance members who have had engagements filed under a local union agreement cancelled due to the coronavirus. The fund will distribute a flat fee of $150 to those who are approved for relief.

Lost My Gig NYC*
This site keeps a running list of NYC freelancers working in the events industry who are in need of financial assistance due to the crisis, allowing people to donate directly to those individuals through their Venmo, CashApp and Paypal accounts. Apply to have your name added to the list here.

NY State of Health Special Enrollment
The state’s health insurance exchange has opened up an emergency special enrollment period for uninsured residents through April 15.

NYC Low-Income Artist/Freelancer Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
As of March 18, this fund has raised more than $36,000 for NYC-based low-income, BIPOC, trans, gender noncomforming, nonbinary and queer artists and freelancers whose livelihoods are being effected by the pandemic. In order to meet demand, the fund has temporarily paused applications for funding. Those who have already applied will be informed about fund distribution by March 20.

New York Foundation for the Arts Rauschenberg Emergency Grants
The New York Foundation for the Arts and Robert Rauschenberg Foundation are teaming up to provide emergency medical grants for artists who need help paying for healthcare amid the crisis. The grants, expected to be rolled out in late May or early June, will offer artists of all disciplines up to $5,000 of assistance for medical emergencies. Apply here.

New York Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment
The MOME website offers information and services including a survey for nightlife workers, freelancers and businesses impacted by COVID-19; a link to Small Business Services, which is offering assistance and guidance for local businesses; and information for public meetings and gatherings.

New York State Department of Labor
New York residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

North Carolina:

Durham Artist Relief Fund*
Durham-based artists, arts presenters and arts venues in need of funds due to coronavirus-related cancellations can apply here for financial assistance, with priority given to to BIPOC artists, transgender and nonbinary artists and disabled artists.

Music Anywhere CLT*
Charlotte musicians can participate in this virtual concert series simply by creating a Facebook event for their show and adding @MusicEverywhereCLT as a co-host. Music Everywhere CLT, an economic initiative supporting the Charlotte live music industry, is promoting all participants in the series through its online calendar and Facebook page (above). It recommends that artists link to merch stores and list their Venmo accounts on their livestreams to create a virtual tip jar.

NC Artists Relief Fund*
This fund is a collaboration between Artspace, PineCone, United Arts Council and VAE Raleigh to support creative individuals in North Carolina who have been financially impacted by gig cancellations due to the pandemic. Apply for funds here.

North Carolina Department of Commerce
North Carolina residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Mecklenburg Creatives Resiliency Fund
The Mecklenburg Creatives Resiliency Fund helps creative practitioners in Mecklenburg County recover from personal emergencies by helping pay an unanticipated, emergency expense or by augmenting lost income due to the cancellation of a specific, scheduled gig or opportunity due to Coronavirus/COVID-19 precautionary measures. ASC will provide flat $500 awards to applicants meeting the fund criteria including for medical expenses related to COVID-19 testing or care, unanticipated childcare or dependent adult care expenses caused by disruption of community services and/or lost income due to the cancellation of a specific scheduled gig, exhibit, sale or similar opportunity due to COVID-19 precautionary measures.

North Dakota:

North Dakota Job Service
North Dakota residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Ohio:

Columbus Artists Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
The Columbus Artists Relief Fund GoFundMe campaign is raising money to help offset the financial impact felt by Columbus artists through lost work. This is open to individual artists in central Ohio. Priority will be given to artists who are black, indigenous or people of color, transgender or nonbinary or disabled, but the goal is to try to help as many artists with need in the greater Columbus-area as possible.

COVID-19 Ohio Individual and Arts Organization Surveys
Ohio Citizens for the Arts has created surveys for both individuals and arts organizations in the state to inform strategies for alleviating the impact of the pandemic on the arts community. The organization has also set up an action center that allows individuals to participate in advocacy campaigns pertaining to relief for the state’s arts and creative sector.

Greater Columbus Arts Council*
The organization has turned its longstanding Support for Professional Artists fund into a COVID-19 relief fund, and is offering grants of up to $1,000 each to professional, working artists residing in Franklin County who have sustained a loss of income due to the crisis. View grant guidelines here and apply here.

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Ohio residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Oklahoma:

Oklahoma Employment Security Commission
Oklahoma residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Red Dirt Relief Fund*
The Red Dirt Relief Fund has offered financial assistance to Oklahoma music professionals in times of need since 2012. It has pledged $50,000 to a new coronavirus relief fund, offering one-time emergency grants of up to $250 on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply for a grant here.

Oregon:

COVID-19 Oregon Musicians Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
This fund organized by the Jeremy Wilson Foundation is raising $25,000 to go toward medical expenses, lodging, food and other vital living expenses for musicians based in Oregon and Clark County, Washington, impacted by sickness or loss of work due to the pandemic. Once funds are secured, the foundation will share information on how to apply for assistance.

Oregon Employment Department
Oregon residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

OregonHealthCare.gov
Though there is no coronavirus-specific special enrollment period being offered for Oregon’s federally-run health insurance marketplace, the state has reached an agreement with a number of health insurance companies to waive co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles for individuals who need COVID-19 testing.

Portland Area Artist Emergency Relief Fund*
This fund is for freelance/independent artists of all disciplines residing in the Portland tri-county area, and aims to assist those who are facing “guaranteed lost income” between March 18 and June 10 due to cancelled events and gigs. As of March 30, the fund has temporarily put a pause on new applications until it can gather ample resources for the next round of requests. 

Pennsylvania:

Greater Pittsburgh Art Council Emergency Fund For Artists*
The Greater Pittsburgh Art Council is expanding its emergency fund to provide grants of up to $500 to local artists experiencing loss of income due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation
Pennsylvania residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

PGH Artist Emergency Fund (GoFundMe)*
This fund has surpassed its goal of raising $15,000 to help local artists affected by gig cancellations pay their rent, buy groceries and other essentials. Apply for funding here.

Rhode Island:

HealthSource Rhode Island
The state’s health insurance exchange has opened up an emergency special enrollment period for uninsured residents through April 19 due to coronavirus concerns.

Newport Festivals Musician Relief Fund*
This relief fund is open to past and present performers of the Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, as well as artists in the Rhode Island community. It was launched by the nonprofit that sustains both festivals, the Newport Festivals Foundation.

Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Rhode Island residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

South Carolina:

South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
South Carolina residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

South Dakota:

South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation
South Dakota residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Tennessee:

Grand Ole Opry Trust Fund
Since its inception in 1965, this fund set up by the iconic Nashville concert hall has distributed more than $2 million to members of the country music industry to cover medical bills, living expenses, rent or mortgage payments and more in times of crisis. Applications are open to any individuals who are or have been employed full-time in a facet of the music industry (including performers, songwriters, publishers, radio session musicians and others).

Nashville Musicians AFM Local 257
Members of the Nashville chapter of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) have access to its Local 257 Emergency Relief Fund for financial assistance, as well as access to group health insurance through Sound Healthcare.

Nashville Mayor John Cooper’s COVID-19 Response Fund*
The more than $1 million fund, housed by United Way of Greater Nashville and chaired by former Senator Dr. Bill Frist, will deploy resources to community-based organizations. Funding decisions will be made by an advisory committee including former Sony Music Nashville CEO Joe Galante.

Music Export Memphis*
Music Export Memphis has started a COVID-19 Emergency relief fund for local musicians who have lost income because of cancellations due to the coronavirus pandemic. To qualify, those applying must be a musician who lives in Memphis and can provide some proof of lost income from COVID-19. To learn more or donate head here.

Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Tennessee residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Texas:

Austin Community Foundation’s Stand With Austin Fund* Established in partnership with the Entrepreneurs Foundation, the fund was set up to support nonprofits assisting vulnerable individuals and small businesses affected by SXSW’s cancellation.

Austin Texas Musicians
The musician advocacy nonprofit formed by local artist Nakia Reynoso is working to secure relief funds and resources for musicians. In the meantime, it has created a continually-updated resource list.

Banding Together ATX (GoFundMe)*
This fund was set up by the Red River Cultural District alliance specifically to support those in the Austin live music community who have been economically impacted by the cancellation of South By Southwest. That includes venues, artists, hospitality workers and others who rely on annual income from SXSW to make ends meet — those who fall under that category, may apply for funds here.

Dallas Artist Relief Fund
Creating Our Future is a group of artists and arts advocates in Dallas who are raising money to support artists and freelancers who are taking financial hits as a result of closures and lost income from COVID-19. The GoFundMe campaign has set a goal of $5,000 to raise funds to provide emergency and preventative resources to those at financial risk. The support is aimed at helping support for low-income, BIPOC, trans/GNC/NB/Queer artists who can apply here.

Housing Opportunities For Musicians And Entertainers
HOME provides financial housing assistance for needy aging musicians in Austin with grant assistance and other support, including referrals to additional available resources.

I Lost My Gig*
Designed to benefit Austin locals who lost work due to SXSW’s cancellation, I Lost My Gig is currently soliciting donations. As of Sunday (March 15), it had already received over 750 submissions representing over $4.2 million in lost income.

Health Alliance for Austin Musicians
HAAM provides access to affordable healthcare for low-income musicians living in Austin.

SIMS Foundation
Locals struggling to mentally and emotionally cope with the impact of COVID-19 may contact the SIMS Foundation, which provides access to mental health and substance use recovery services for Central Texas musicians, music industry professionals and their dependent family members.

Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
This centralized guide was created for small businesses and nonprofits in Texas who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and are looking to apply for SBA loans. Those who have suffered “substantial economic injury” from COVID-19 may be eligible for economic injury disaster loans of up to $2 million.

Texas Music Office
Though the office isn’t offering benefits itself, it can help music workers affected by the pandemic apply for the state’s disaster unemployment assistance, which extends unemployment benefits to those who don’t traditionally qualify.

Texas Workforce Commission
Texas residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Workforce Solutions Capital Area
WFS, the nonprofit governing body for the regional workforce, is offering layoff support both for businesses and workers in light of the coronavirus outbreak.

Utah:

Utah Workforce Services
Utah residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Vermont:

Vermont Department of Labor
Vermont residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Vermont Health Connect Special Enrollment
The state’s health insurance exchange is taking a number of actions during the coronavirus crisis, including temporarily waiving financial verifications for those seeking to enroll, extending coverage periods until after the emergency ends, suspending some terminations of insurance and opening up a special one-month enrollment period for uninsured residents.

Virginia:

Virginia Employment Commission
Virginia residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Washington, D.C.:

DC Health Link Special Enrollment
Uninsured residents of the capital can now apply for coverage on the D.C. health insurance exchange, which opened up a special enrollment period due to the pandemic.

Mutual Aid Project*
The D.C.-based arts platform and network is assisting black and non-white trans and gender expansive artists by offering a “voluntary exchange of services and resources.” With musicians and other artists continuing to lose gigs during the pandemic, the organization is building an artist directory to showcase the work of those affected. Once the directory is complete, the organization will extend a “call to action” to the larger community for support.

Washington D.C. Department of Employment Services
Washington D.C. residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Washington:

4Culture Cultural Relief Fund*
This fund is offering one-time grants of up to $2,000 for artists of all disciplines living in King County, Wash., who have been adversely affected by the pandemic. The application for the first round of funding opens April 1 and closes May 15.

Seattle Foundation’s COVID-19 Response Fund*
Hosted by the Seattle Foundation, the COVID-19 Response Fund provides flexible resources to organizations working with communities that have been “disproportionately impacted” by the coronavirus pandemic. The fund, which as of March 18 had already raised over $12 million, will award one-time operating grants to those organizations to help affected populations, including gig economy workers.

Seattle Artists Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
Seattle-based author and artist Ijeoma Oluo and others organized this fundraiser, which helps those who have been financially impacted by cancellations due to COVID-19. Priority is given to BIPOC artists, transgender and nonbinary artists and disabled artists. Apply for funds here.

Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan’s Arts Stabilization Fund* In addition to donating $50,000 to the Seattle Artists Relief Fund and another $50,000 to the Artist Trust COVID-19 Artist Relief Fund, the city’s mayor has launched a $1 million Arts Stabilization Fund to help mitigate revenue losses due to the moratorium on events and public gatherings.

Seattle Music Teachers Fund (GoFundMe)*
Seattle-based music teachers are eligible to receive money from this fund (which has a goal of $5,000) to help with lost income due to canceled lessons and other non-performance music work. Apply for funds here.

Seattle Musicians Access to Sustainable Healthcare
SMASH helps connect Seattle musicians to healthcare, dental services and health education.

Spokane Artists & Creatives Fund*
This fund is for individual artists of all disciplines living in Spokane, Washington. Priority will be given to artists of color, transgender and nonbinary, and disabled artists.

Musicians’ Association of Seattle Emergency Relief Fund
Members of AFM’s Seattle chapter who have experienced a period of “uninvited financial hardship” can apply for financial assistance by contacting the chapter’s secretary/treasurer Warren Johnson at [email protected].

Washington Employment Security Department
Washington residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Washington Health Plan Finder Special Enrollment
In response to the pandemic, Washington’s health insurance exchange is now offering an emergency special enrollment period through April 8 for qualified uninsured residents.

West Virginia:

Workforce West Virginia
West Virginia residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Wisconsin:

Ambient Inks Chippewa Valley Artist Relief Fund (GoFundMe)*
Ambient Inks, a Wisconsin-based company for consciously-sourced merch, is raising money for performing and visual Chippewa Valley artists who have lost revenue due to the coronavirus crisis. Priority will be given to BIPOC artists, transgender and nonbinary artists, and disabled artists. Apply for a grant of up to $500 here.

Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
Wisconsin residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.

Wyoming:

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
Wyoming residents can submit an application for unemployment benefits here.