READI Program 2026: Signups Now Open!

Folk Canada is pleased to announce the second edition of the Ready & Emerging Artist Development Incubator (READI) Program, taking place at the 2026 Folk Canada Conference in Hamilton.

The READI Program is for artists of all ages and genres to gather for an intensive day of training, peer sharing, mentorship, and community building before the Folk Canada Conference kicks off. The program will also include a series of online training gatherings prior to the conference, with that schedule to be announced shortly.

IMPORTANT: For 2026, we are limiting participation to 50 people total. Make sure to fill out the RSVP form as soon as you can to secure your place! 

Here’s what to expect for the in-person training component:

• When: 10AM-4PM, Wednesday, October 14, 2026, Sheraton Hamilton Hotel (Downtown)

• What: A full day of in-person workshops on recording, networking and industry pitching, and album release strategies, led by various industry leaders and experts

• Perks: Lunch and light refreshments provided throughout the day

• Showcase (optional): Participants will be invited to perform in a private showcase on Saturday, October 17th, 2026 at the Sheraton Hamilton Hotel. This opportunity is optional for participants, and not mandatory for involvement in the program. Limited showcase slots are available so please RSVP early if you are interested in the performance component.

• Who can join: Anyone registered for the 2026 Folk Canada Conference (October 14–18, Hamilton) can participate, but participation is limited to 50 people! Fill out the RSVP form to confirm your attendance, so we can make sure there is a meal for you, get your dietary needs/preferences, and confirm if you’d like to perform in the showcase.

  
  

RSVP deadline: August 31, 2026 (so we have time to program the private showcase rooms and order lunch).

RSVP HERE

If you aren’t registered for the conference yet, or would like more information on volunteering, click here.

Mentors will be announced soon, so keep an eye on your inbox for updates!

Questions? Just send us a message at joel@folkcanada.com and we'll help you out!