Norsk Bluesunion (NBU) is now accepting applications for its Young Artist Grant 2026, offering a valuable career boost for emerging blues musicians in Norway. The grant is aimed at a young solo artist or band that shows both commitment and a clear desire to grow, and it will be awarded during the Notodden Blues Festival.
The initiative is designed to support young performers who work within blues or blues-related music, while also helping open doors into the wider Norwegian blues community.
What the recipient will receive
The artist or band selected for the NBU Young Artist Grant 2026 will receive:
- NOK 30,000 for the production or promotion of their own music
- Live performances organized and promoted by Norsk Bluesunion
- One recording day at Juke Joint Studios in Notodden
- A suitable musical mentor for pre-production
- Guidance in developing a press kit
- Mentoring in navigating the music industry
Taken together, the package offers more than financial support. It is structured as a practical development opportunity, combining funding, visibility, mentoring, and professional guidance.
Who can apply
Applicants must:
- be based in Norway
- consider blues a relevant genre for themselves and their music
- apply either as an individual artist or as a band
Norsk Bluesunion notes that the grant is intended to motivate the recipient, increase visibility in the blues environment, and serve as a gateway into the Norwegian blues scene.
While the opportunity is open more broadly, NBU says it especially encourages applicants under the age of 26 to apply.
What to include in the application
Applications must be submitted by email and should include:
- a short biography
including full name, age, place of residence, and whether the applicant is in school or similar education/training - a photo
which must be usable in NBU’s channels if the grant is awarded - a short motivation letter
explaining how receiving the grant would help the artist or band and how the grant money would be used - two audio clips
in.mp3or.wavformat that reflect the project as clearly as possible
Studio-quality recordings are not required, but the material should make it possible for the jury to hear the songs and the artist’s musical identity clearly.
Applicants are also encouraged to include links to relevant social media or media coverage, if available.
Important deadline
Applications must be sent to: post@norskbluesunion.no
Deadline: 15 May 2026
NBU also notes that the grant can only be awarded to the same recipient once.
A door-opener for the next generation
The applications will be evaluated by a jury assembled by Norsk Bluesunion, made up of key figures from the Norwegian blues field. The grant is clearly positioned not only as a financial award, but as a launching platform for young blues talent.
For aspiring artists looking to strengthen their profile, record new material, and build real connections in the blues world, this could be a meaningful opportunity to take the next step.
Please contact NBU for more details.
