#FIRSTLOOK: SCOTIABANK ARENA & COCA-COLA COLISEUM DEPARTURE BURSARY PROGRAM RELAUNCH

The Departure Festival + Conference from Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group (OVG) and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) today announced the relaunch of the Scotiabank Arena & Coca-Cola Coliseum Departure Bursary Program, which will support 15 aspiring music industry professionals in 2026. Originally created by Canadian Music Week and MLSE, Departure continues the legacy of introducing new talent into the live entertainment industry.

Intended for post-secondary students pursuing careers in the music industry, the Scotiabank Arena & Coca-Cola Coliseum Departure Bursary Program aims to break barriers, providing an opportunity for live music’s brightest aspiring artists to attend Departure for the first time, learn more about this ever-growing and changing industry as well as build their network.

“With Scotiabank Arena and Coca-Cola Coliseum being the center of live entertainment in Toronto, we are thrilled to open our doors in a unique way once again through this bursary program,” said Neil Claydon, Vice President, Ticketing and Music & Live Entertainment, MLSE. “Over the past few years, we’ve been able to give dozens of young leaders unprecedented access and opportunity to get a glimpse into our amazing and thriving industry, and we look forward to welcoming even more participants this year alongside our partners at Departure.”

Each recipient’s 2026 Departure Conference pass provides access to a variety of educational discussions and opportunities.Through meetings with a diverse cross-section of members in the music community, participants get to expand their networks and accelerate their career paths. Recipients will also connect directly with MLSE representatives at an exclusive industry meet-and-greet, including one-on-one meetings in the Departure Mentors Lounge.

“Opening doors for emerging talent is essential to the future of the music industry,” said Kevin Barton, Executive Director, Departure Festival + Conference. “With the relaunch of this bursary program, we’re proud to support the next generation of professionals by creating meaningful access to mentorship, education, and industry connections at a pivotal moment in their careers.”

Applications are now open until April 19, 2026 and recipients will be determined on April 27, 2026.

The Scotiabank Arena & Coca-Cola Coliseum Bursary Program is open to Canadian residents and encourages applications from equity-seeking groups. To apply for the Bursary Program, applicants can complete the application form online to explain who they are and why they want to attend Departure. MLSE will have access to all applications to determine the appropriate recipients. Details of all successful applicants will remain strictly confidential.

Apply online at departureto.com/bursary