Head of Sponsorships & Funding | AI Song Contest 2026
The Organization
The AI Song Contest is the world’s premier international competition for musical co-creation with Artificial Intelligence. Now in its 7th year, the contest supports a global community of over 150 teams pushing the boundaries of ethical AI in music. Operated by the AI Song Contest Foundation, a Dutch non-profit dedicated to fostering innovation, the event culminates in a high-profile Award Show and in-person concert featuring the top 10 finalists.
The Role
We are seeking a strategic and high-energy Head of Sponsorships & Funding to lead our financial growth for the 2026 season. This is a hybrid role requiring a mix of high-level strategy and "boots-on-the-ground" business development. You will be the primary architect of our funding model, bridging the gap between public arts grants and private tech partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Mapping: Identify and prioritize potential partners across three pillars: Public Funding (arts grants/governmental), Industry (Music Tech, AI, Rightsholders, Streaming), and Brand Sponsorships.
- Pipeline Management: End-to-end management of the sales cycle, from cold outreach and lead generation to contract signing and relationship management.
- Fundraising Innovation: Work directly with the Board of Directors to develop creative funding models, such as tiered membership, patron programs, or digital activations.
- Team Building (as necessary): Assist in the recruitment and management of additional fundraising support (i.e., potentially in our host city (location TBA)) if there is an opportunity to secure regional grants and/or localized business support.
- Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for sponsors, ensuring their brand values are ethically integrated into the contest’s narrative.
Desired Qualifications
- English Fluency: Must be fluent in english langauge
- Proven Track Record: At least 5+ years of experience in fundraising within the non-profit arts sector, music festivals, or large-scale live events.
- Industry Influence: An established network within the music industry, music-tech startups, or AI-driven creative organizations.
- Grant Expertise: Familiarity with the nuances of public funding applications and the reporting requirements of cultural grants.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive "closer" who is comfortable working autonomously and managing their own CRM.
- Ethics-First Mindset: A strong understanding of the ethical discussions surrounding AI and the ability to communicate these values to partners.
Compensation & Terms
- Duration: 6-month initial contract.
- Retainer: €1,000 monthly stipend.
- Incentive: Competitive commission percentage based on total funds raised (to be negotiated based on experience).
- Location: Remote, Europe (with possible travel requirements for the Award Show and key partner meetings).
- Reports to Stichting AI Song Contest board
To apply, please send your CV to [email protected] with the title “Application: Head of Sponsorships”.