IBMA Membership

When you join the IBMA, or give to the IBMA Trust Fund, and the IBMA Foundation, you make the bluegrass world a stronger place.

• The IBMA empowers bluegrass worldwide through advocacy, professional development, and renowned programs.
• The IBMA Trust Fund provides real support for bluegrass professionals in times of emergency need
• The IBMA Foundation ensures the future of bluegrass through education.

IBMA Trust Fund:

The IBMA Trust Fund was established in 1987 as a means of offering financial assistance to bluegrass music professionals in time of emergency need. The Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable institution governed by an autonomous five-person board of trustees appointed by the International Bluegrass Music Association.

To date, the IBMA Trust Fund has given over $800,000 in direct aid to professionals in emergency need. The Fund helps eligible bluegrass professionals who are currently or have previously been significantly involved in the industry. This includes, but is not limited to, artists, composers, broadcasters, media representatives, event producers, agents, educators, managers, and employees of record companies.

All requests and the circumstances surrounding them are held with the utmost confidence. The Fund does not share the names of applicants or recipients. However, some members of our community have gone public with their stories to build awareness of this essential service.

Each request for assistance is judged on its own merits and should demonstrate a financial emergency or circumstance involving dire need.

There is no limit to the amount an applicant may request, but grants have generally ranged from $500 to $5000. Self-applications are encouraged, however, the Fund gladly welcomes applications from interested third parties on behalf of individuals in need.

IBMA Foundation:

The IBMA Foundation supports programs and initiatives fostering the growth of bluegrass music. The foundation help donors create a legacy for future generations of musicians and fans by connecting resources to projects that focus on bluegrass music-related arts and culture, education, literary work, and historic preservation.  Join on FaceBook.

IBMA Foundation Project Grants- (up to $2000 each) are designed to assist programs that align with the goals of the Foundation. Deadline to apply: December 1.

IBMA Membership:

Why not join or renew now?

As an IBMA member, you are joining a community of bluegrass professionals from every aspect of the industry and enthusiasts from all over the world. It has something essential in common: we are all passionate about our music, Your membership shows your commitment to the growth and development of bluegrass music. Be a part of it!

Click here to learn more about the wonderful world of the International Bluegrass Music Association including details of membership, membership levels and to join.