Culture Ireland is inviting applications from artists and artists’ managers/agents for support to attend jazzahead! – the international jazz event taking place in Bremen, Germany (22 – 25 April 2026).

jazzahead! is one of the most important international professional markets for jazz and improvised music of all persuasions. The four-day event attracts more than 3,000 industry attendees from over 55 countries, including hundreds of concert and festival bookers, labels, publishers, distributors and managers. Further information of the event is available here.

jazzahead! is one of Culture Ireland’s key Showcase events designed to create new opportunities for Irish artists – a full calendar of the Culture Ireland 2026 Showcase Programme is available here.

Culture Ireland is offering a limited number of delegate bursaries to participate in jazzahead! in 2026. This will form part of the wider Ireland presence at jazzahead! which will be delivered by the Improvised Music Company.

Applicants, who may be artists, companies or members of resource organisations must demonstrate:

* a track record of achievement in the contemporary jazz genre

* experience of international touring

* availability of excellent promotional material

* the benefits to them of attendance at jazzahead!

* the contribution they could make to the Irish stand at the tradeshow

Dedicated pre-event meetings will be held with all selected delegates to ensure considered preparation and maximise success of the event for all parties.

The award (€750 per delegate) is aimed to cover the costs of return flights, registration with a contribution towards accommodation and subsistence.

Only one delegate bursary will be awarded per organisation. Applicants should apply online to Culture Ireland. Click here to apply.

The deadline for proposals is 5pm on Friday 20 February 2026.