Apply Now to the BMI Foundation 2026 Songwriting & Composer Awards

The BMI Foundation has officially opened applications for its Summer 2026 awards, offering emerging songwriters and composers a pair of high-impact opportunities designed to support artists at a pivotal stage in their careers.

This year’s open programs include the peermusic Latin Music Award and the Pete Carpenter Fellowship, each tailored to distinct creative paths within the music industry. Submissions for both are due by June 30, 2026, with all eligibility requirements determined as of that date.

Aimed at songwriters working within Latin genres, the peermusic Latin Music Award recognizes excellence in songwriting while providing financial support and industry visibility. Meanwhile, the Pete Carpenter Fellowship is geared toward aspiring film and television composers, offering mentorship and hands-on experience in media scoring—an area often difficult to break into without direct access.

Together, the two programs reflect the BMI Foundation’s broader mission: to provide not just recognition, but meaningful resources for artists navigating the early stages of professional development.

“We are thrilled to offer these launchpads for the next generation of songwriters and media composers,” said BMI Foundation President Deirdre Chadwick. “Each award is uniquely tailored to the needs of creators within a specific genre. Everyone at the BMI Foundation is proud to provide financial, business and artistic support for these emerging artists at a critical point in their careers.”

While industry accolades can often feel symbolic, initiatives like these tend to offer more tangible outcomes—whether through funding, mentorship, or connections that extend beyond the award itself. Past recipients have gone on to build sustainable careers across songwriting, production, and media composition, underscoring the long-term value of such programs.

For artists currently refining their sound or looking to expand into new areas of the industry, the BMI Foundation’s Summer 2026 awards represent a rare combination of credibility, access, and support.

Applications are now open, find your application here.