Country Talent Development Fund (CTDF)
The CCMA is a federally chartered non-profit professional organization whose purpose is to protect the heritage and advocate the development and growth of Canadian country music domestically and internationally.
Since 1976, the CCMA has been the principle advocate for the growth and development of Canadian country music. The Country Talent Development Fund - CTDF, was created in 1990 to promote and develop Canadian talent.
The CCMA is very proud of the success that Canadian country artists have achieved both nationally and internationally. The Country Talent Development Fund has supported many of these artists in the early years of their careers. This fund was developed to promote a national Canadian country star system. It was created as a way for radio stations to help country music in Canada grow in an economical, effective and efficient manner.
The CTDF is an eligible third party as recognized by the CRTC.
The Country Talent Development Fund supports the programs listed to the left.
"The Book" - CCMA Source Guide
The Book is the only Canadian print and online directory to exclusively list country music contacts essential to you in one publication. Available in print and online to members of the CCMA, this source guide contains comprehensive listings of thousands of industry professionals from artists, to publications, to promoters, to songwriters, to venues. "The Book" is often considered to be the 'must-have' source guide for the Canadian country music industry.
"The Book" is just one of the many tools the CCMA offers its members. There are many more benefits that come with membership to the CCMA, and we invite you to review them here.
Canadian Tour Support
The CCMA Canadian Tour Support Program started in 1997 to support domestic touring activities by Canadian artists. This assists in allowing artists to remain on the road longer to promote their albums to radio, to their fans and to retail. Financial support is only available against shortfalls between eligible touring expenses and revenue.
The maximum reimbursement is $2,000.00 and artists are eligible once per calendar year. This program is used mostly by independent artists who do not have the financial support or backing of the major record labels.
To learn more about the Tour Support Program and download the application form please click here (PDF).
Country Music Week Showcases
The showcases provide an opportunity for professional development; a showcase of the highest caliber of Canadian country music talent; and an opportunity to heighten public awareness and increase audience appreciation for Canadian country music. Record companies, media, mangers, booking agents and radio, attend the Showcases. Since 1994, over 200 artists have showcased during Country Music Week.
Songwriter's Café
The Songwriter's Café held during Country Music Week focuses on one of the most important elements of the Canadian country music industry - the songwriter and his craft. This event offers Canadian songwriters the opportunity to share their songs and the stories behind them. The Songwriter's Café features acoustic performances by a variety of artists - some of them major stars, some of them relative unknowns, all of them songwriters steeped in the craft of their profession.
