Powering Live Shows. Supporting Artists.
At Play PA Live, we believe the impact of live shows extends beyond the performance — it’s a vital part of Pennsylvania’s vibrant culture. Our mission is to promote and support live performances across the state by investing in artists, venues, and industry professionals who make them possible.
A strong live events scene doesn’t just enrich our communities, it also attracts tourism and makes Pennsylvania a top destination for live entertainment. As a welcome consequence, it also supports our economy through both revenue generation and job creation.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), Play PA Live supports and promotes live music across Pennsylvania through targeted grantmaking that strengthens every part of the live events ecosystem. Our three core grant programs include:
Rehearsal Grant Program
Through our Rehearsal Grant Program, we provide financial support to developing artists to prepare for tours and bring their performances to life, while simultaneously boosting Pennsylvania’s live events industry. Grant awards are tiered based on spending on Pennsylvania-based concert tour equipment, with funding amounts ranging from $15,000 to $195,000.
To qualify, an artist must:
- Spend at least $50,000 on concert tour equipment from Pennsylvania-based companies
- Rehearse for at least three days at a rehearsal facility in Pennsylvania
- Perform at least one concert in Pennsylvania
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted at least 10 days and no more than 180 days before the rehearsal start date
- Grants are awarded on a rolling first-come, first-served basis until funds are fully distributed
Apply Today
If you’re a rising musical artist looking to perform in Pennsylvania, we want to help. For more information or to apply for our Rehearsal Grant, please contact us at applications@playpalive.org
Venue Grant Program
This program supports Pennsylvania’s cultural and economic growth by strengthening the venues at the heart of live music. It’s designed to support Pennsylvania venues that regularly host live musical performances, helping ensure that live music remains accessible, vibrant, and sustainable across the state. Through targeted support, the program helps venues enhance the experience for musicians, staff, and audiences; attract top talent; build stronger community connections; and achieve long-term business growth.
The program will provide grants to Pennsylvania eligible venues for the following needs:
- To purchase or rent concert tour equipment used in the production of a concert.
- To make improvements that enhance and ensure the safety and comfort for staff, musicians and patrons.
- To incorporate innovative technology to modernize operations.
- To assist the venue in booking an artist.
Eligibility for the program is limited to Pennsylvania-based venues, including music-focused clubs, theaters, arenas, stadiums, amphitheaters, bandshells, bandstands, festival grounds, and other properties specifically designed and constructed for hosting concerts.
How to Apply
Grants are awarded on a rolling first-come, first-served basis until funds are fully distributed. For more information or to apply for our venue grant, please contact us at applications@playpalive.org.
Industry Support Grants
The Industry Support Grant Program funds initiatives that ensure the long-term health, growth, and resilience of Pennsylvania’s live events scene. This includes education, workforce development, mental health, and substance abuse prevention and recovery.
Eligible applicants include Pennsylvania-based nonprofits, businesses, workforce development agencies or organizations, labor unions, training facilities, educational institutions, or other entities that operate or intend to support the live events industry in Pennsylvania. Grants support projects in the following primary areas:
- Education: Training for careers in live events — from production and engineering to management and design.
- Workforce Development: Job creation, skills training, internships, and apprenticeships to build a robust industry talent pipeline.
- Mental Health: Programs that support the emotional and psychological well-being of live events professionals.
- Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery: Resources and support systems for those struggling with addiction or in recovery.
How to Apply
Grants are awarded on a rolling first-come, first-served basis until funds are fully distributed.
For more information or to apply for our industry support grant, please contact us at applications@playpalive.org.
Through responsible stewardship and a deep commitment to the arts, we invest in people and programs that spark creativity, strengthen communities, and ensure live music and performance remain an essential part of Pennsylvania’s future.

