October 14-18, 2026 (Sheraton Hamilton Hotel (Downtown), Hamilton, ON)
CION and Music Ontario are teaming up to present two nights of private showcases during the Folk Canada conference in October 2026!
Taking place in Hamilton, ON, this year, Folk Canada is the premier annual gathering of Canada's folk, roots, and world music community, and an essential platform for artists, presenters, buyers, and industry professionals from across the country and around the world. Now in its 40th year, the conference plays a vital role in connecting Canadian artists with market opportunities, supporting professional development at every career stage, and positioning Canada's folk and roots music sector on the international stage.
If you’re not familiar with private showcasing, they’re the bonus after-hours showcases after each day’s conference programming and official showcasing wraps for the evening. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with peers, industry, and international delegates and to perform acoustically in an intimate setting. We welcome applications from folk artists from across Ontario and from any folk tradition.
Northern Ontario-based musicians and bands are encouraged to apply for the showcase before August 12, 2026.
Apply Here
PLEASE NOTE:
- You must be a Northern Ontario-based artist to be eligible.
- Showcases are brief – 15 minutes each, with 5 minutes to change over.
- Showcases take place in a hotel room in the host hotel, so you must have an acoustic configuration, with only light percussion permitted.
- We suggest you start exploring funding/grant opportunities ASAP if you hope to offset costs related to attending a business and showcase conference like Folk Canada.
- You must be registered with CION and have an ON-Stage Profile
Application deadline is August 12, 2026.
All applications will be adjudicated by CION and our showcase