Program Details

On the Road with Side Door is an incentive program available to Artists who performed at Folk Alliance International (FAI) and/or South by Southwest (SXSW) in 2023. Eligible Artists touring around the U.S. can apply for a $500 USD guarantee for each of their public ticketed Side Door shows that take place anytime in 2023. The guarantee is in addition to the net ticket revenue split from shows.

This program aims to assist artists find meaningful shows while touring in the U.S. and help top up the gas tank. Our mission is to provide Artists with a sustainable revenue stream, directly connect Hosts and Presenters with talent, and give Guests access to memorable entertainment. 

Guarantees are issued on a first-come-first-serve basis. There is a limit to two guarantees per artist per year (unless otherwise noted). One guarantee will be issued per show if there are two eligible artists. Please read terms and conditions carefully.

Side Door strongly encourages applications from under-represented groups. Applications with diverse programming and shows that promote under-represented voices will be prioritized.


Junaco at Side Door SXSW Showcase

Junaco at the Side Door x SXSW 2022 showcase.


Who can apply?

This program is reserved for FAI and/or SXSW 2023 showcasing Artists playing ticketed Side Door shows throughout the U.S. until December 31, 2023.

  • Artists must have showcased at FAI and/or SXSW 2023 

  • Can be solo or group

  • Can be any genre or live performance type

  • Can be from anywhere in the world


Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the $500 USD guarantee, the show must meet the following criteria:

  • Artist must create a Show Call for desired location and date (what is a Show Call?)

  • Show Call must be shared publicly on socials (tag us or use hashtag #ontheroadwithsidedoor) or newsletters

  • Show must be booked and ticketed through Side Door, public and in-person, and take place in the months of January through December 2023 in the U.S.

  • Shows must be booked at least 30 days before show date

In an effort to grow the Side Door community, help spread the word about shows in non-traditional performance spaces, and to inspire fans to host their favorite artists, we have structured these criteria to encourage growth and build awareness about the need for more performance spaces. The more people who know about Side Door, the more hosts we can find and the more revenue streams we can create for artists. Thank you in advance for sharing in any way you can. 

If you have any questions about the criteria, please contact Projects and Partnerships Manager Gianna at gianna@sidedooraccess.com.

Terms updated July 13, 2023