THE BRITISH COLUMBIA MUSIC FESTIVAL COLLECTIVE (BCMFC) IS A NON-PROFIT INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION THAT WAS FORMED IN APRIL 2020 AT THE ONSET OF THE PANDEMIC TO PROVIDE A COMMON VOICE AND SHARED SPACE TO BC’S MUSIC FESTIVAL INDUSTRY. FESTIVAL MEMBERS INCLUDE NON-PROFITS AND FOR-PROFITS, ALL GENRES AND SIZES FROM ACROSS ALL REGIONS OF OUR PROVINCE. MEMBERSHIP IS OPEN TO ANY MUSIC FESTIVAL BASED IN BC.

Join the Collective

If you represent a music festival in BC and want to join the collective we would love to speak with you.

Benefits of being a member

 

  1. Access to the Listserv & Direct Communication with Peers

Members gain access to an exclusive Listserv, allowing them to connect with other festival organizers, ask questions, share resources, and discuss industry challenges in real time. This is an invaluable tool for staying informed and collaborating with others in the festival community.

 

  1. Monthly Meetings with Expert Speakers & Industry Updates

BCMFC hosts regular membership meetings featuring expert speakers, policy updates, and festival-related discussions. These meetings offer members a chance to learn about new regulations, funding opportunities, and best practices, while also fostering networking and collaboration.

 

  1. Annual Symposiums with Industry Leaders

Members have the opportunity to attend BCMFC’s symposiums, which bring together key industry leaders, government officials, and festival organizers. These events provide access to expert panels, workshops, and networking opportunities that help members stay ahead of industry trends and strengthen their festival operations.

 

  1. Advocacy & Representation at the Government Level

BCMFC acts as a unified voice for music festivals, advocating for industry needs at both the provincial and national levels. This includes direct engagement with agencies like the Provincial Creative Branch, Tourism Ministry, as well as funding bodies, like Creative BC and BC Arts Council; and provincial working groups such as the Coalition for Arts Culture and Heritage, BC Live Festival Caucus, and the ActSafe Performing Arts Standing Committee. On a National level the BCMFC is a member of the Canadian Live Music Association.

 

  1. Impact Data & Research to Strengthen Festival Operations

BCMFC’s data collection initiatives provide not only major support to their advocacy work within the sector, but also provides members with valuable insights into festival trends, economic contributions, and audience impact. This data is essential for:

  • Strengthening grant applications and sponsorship proposals
  • Demonstrating the cultural and economic significance of festivals to stakeholders
  • Making informed decisions about festival growth and sustainability

 

Link here for the latest BCMFC Survey Report Executive Summary

 

  1. Strengthening Connections with Tourism & Cultural Partners

BCMFC helps festivals build relationships with tourism organizations, government agencies, and arts & culture stakeholders. These partnerships can lead to increased visibility, funding opportunities, access to tools and resources, and marketing collaborations that benefit the entire festival ecosystem.

 

  1. Online Directory

BCMFC.ca features an online directory of British Columbia’s music festivals linking directly to festival websites. If you are a member festival and not yet listed on the website, please reach out to have your festival featured.

 

  1. Industry News

We keep members updated on all our industry news, upcoming events, and professional development opportunities.