Drumming News :
The Percussive Arts Society (PAS) is proud to announce the establishment of the Steve Weiss Memorial Grant, a new initiative designed to act as a business incubator for the percussion community. Funded by a generous gift from longtime PAS member Joe Cochran, the grant will provide emerging vendors with the opportunity to showcase their products and services at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC).
“This grant is more than just a financial gift; it’s a launchpad,” says Joshua Simonds, Executive Director, PAS. “By supporting the ‘incubator’ model, we are ensuring that the percussion industry remains vibrant, diverse, and filled with new voices.”
The grant honors the legacy of Steve Weiss by fostering growth within the industry, offering recipients a platform for massive exposure, networking, and business development.
The Steve Weiss Memorial Grant is specifically designed to remove the financial barriers to entry for small businesses and innovators. The program will cover:
- Standard Booth Fees: Direct registration costs for a booth in the PASIC exhibit hall.
- Supplemental Expenses: Additional funds to assist with travel, lodging, meals, and shipping/drayage.
To ensure the grant supports true industry growth, the selection committee will prioritize vendors who have never exhibited at PASIC or those who have been absent for a substantial period.
- Focus: Open to vendors of percussion instruments, accessories, sheet music, and directly related services.
- Exclusions: The grant is intended for commercial business growth; organizations focused solely on recruitment (such as universities or military groups) are not eligible.
For more information on the application process and requirements, please visit the Percussive Arts Society website.
- Application Period: April 1 – June 1, 2026
- Recipient Announcement: No later than June 30, 2026
- Learn more HERE
