Call for applications: ACCES 2026 music showcases

One of the largest music trade events in Africa, ACCES was created by the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) in 2017 as a platform to foster the development of the African music industry. The event travels to different locations, offering a diverse programme of activities, including a two-day conference, a two-day showcase festival, exhibitions, policy seminars, industry awards, masterclasses, songwriting camps, and workshops.

ACCES offers a platform for performers to showcase their talent to a diverse audience of local and international delegates, including festival curators, promoters, booking agents, record labels and other influential industry professionals.

Since its launch in 2017, ACCES has grown into a key platform for Africa’s music industry, fostering knowledge exchange, networking opportunities, and the promotion of emerging talents. Last year, ACCES was attended by more than 2,300 delegates and music lovers in Tshwane, South Africa. Previous editions have been held in Dakar (2017), Nairobi (2018), Accra (2019), Johannesburg (COVID-19 edition in 2021), Dar es Salaam (2022 and 2023), and Kigali (2024).

The application deadline is 30 April 2026 (23:59 CAT).

Who can apply?

• This call is open to African musicians (solo artists, bands, DJs, etc.) based on the continent.
• Applicants should be emerging musicians who will genuinely benefit from the opportunity and boost their careers internationally.
• Applicants must be able to deliver an outstanding live performance.
• Applicants should be export-ready.
• All genres are welcome.
• All participants must be over 18 years old.
• All applications must be based on live performances and original music. No backing tracks.
• Performances supporting political parties or religious faith are not permissible. 
• Artists who have already performed at ACCES may only apply again after five years, from the year of their last performance.

NOTE: Applications can be submitted by the artists themselves or their representatives (managers, publishers, labels, agents and promoters).

Support from ACCES

• Selected acts will be showcased to a diverse audience of local and international music professionals from across the music industry as well as other influential audiences.
• Performers will receive a modest honorarium.
• Two-night accommodation and a per diem for performers from outside Gauteng.
• One band manager only may be included in the travelling party and benefit from the same support as the performing band members.
• Visa costs, where applicable (reimbursed against receipts).
• Local transport (related to the performance).
• Regular sound and lights plus basic shared backline.
• Professional video recording of the performance.
• Full access to all ACCES activities, venues and delegate database.
• Promotion across the Music In Africa and ACCES platforms (programme, newsletters, press releases, website, social media, etc.).
• Media campaign.
• A space at ACCES venue(s) for showcasing artists to sell their merchandise.
• Potential performing opportunities within the Music In Africa festival network (50+ festivals across the world).

Important requirements to consider before applying

• Applicants should be prepared to be available for the duration of ACCES and to perform on any of the dates (12, 13, 14 November 2026).
• Musicians based outside Johannesburg should be prepared to provide their own funding for transport costs to and from Johannesburg. Proof will be required from selected acts for contract signature, and priority will be given to applicants who are most likely to make it to ACCES.

Steps to apply

1. Read the application guidelines carefully.

2. Create (if you haven’t already) a profile on the Music in Africa Artist & Industry section using this link: https://www.musicinafrica.net/user/register.

Your profile must include the following: 

• A clear biography.
• At least three latest song releases.
• At least one live performance video.
• At least two high-resolution promotional photos and credits.
• Website, streaming and social media links. 

NOTE: 

• Make sure that your profile is complete and up-to-date, as this is the profile that the ACCES Jury will review. See an example of a profile HERE. 
• You may find your profile already created by a Music in Africa contributor. In this case, you would need to follow the online steps to claim it. Once you have control of your profile, make sure to update it. 
• An email address can be linked to one Music In Africa profile only. 

3. Complete the application form HERE in English or French. 
Email applications will not be considered. The application form allows applicants to save for later completion.

Selection process

Application deadline: 30 April 2026 (23:59 CAT).

• Eligible applications will be reviewed by the ACCES Curation Committee.
• All applicants will be notified by 21 May 2026.
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Only applications submitted via the dedicated online form will be considered.
• Late applications will not be considered.

For any enquiries, email Claire Metais at claire@musicinafrica.net.