A program that has helped launch the careers of more than 100 Western and Northern Canadian musicians is returning to Studio Bell this fall — and applications are now open.

Artist Entrepreneur West, known as AE West, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a new cohort running November 2 to December 4 at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre in Calgary's East Village. The program, presented in partnership with Canada's Music Incubator and the National Music Centre, equips emerging and independent artists with practical tools, one-on-one mentorship, and industry training to help them build sustainable careers in music.

Since launching alongside the opening of Studio Bell in 2016, AE West has delivered more than 1,500 hours of mentorship, with alumni going on to earn JUNO Awards and major industry nominations. Past participants include Noeline Hofmann, Sebastian Gaskin, Josh Sahunta, and Celeigh Cardinal.

Most program costs are covered for participating artists thanks to support from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Government of Canada, Stingray Radio, and TD Ready Commitment. One Indigenous artist is also sponsored annually through the Vince Fontaine Legacy Award.

Artists based in Western and Northern Canada who are 18 or older and actively writing, recording, or performing can apply at canadasmusicincubator.com/aewest. The deadline is July 12, 2026.