By Pepper Parr
Funding Cuts Are Undermining a LegacyThe federal Heritage Fund, which traditionally supported with $200,000 annually, now only offers grants up to $50,000. Other funding programs have been similarly reduced in material amounts. These losses, compounded by shrinking sponsorship dollars, have created a critical gap that threatens the very heart of the festival.
A recent survey conducted with Burlington Economic Development and Tourism underscores what we’ve long known:
42% of attendees come from outside the city, with many staying 4+ nights, boosting revenue for hotels, restaurants, and retailers.
90% of out–of–town visitors plan to return to Burlington after attending
Over 40 local businesses were showcased as community partners
The festival provided contracts in over$ 500k in value to Southern Ontario based businesses
Is everyone benefitting?
This is more than a festival. It’s an economic and cultural anchor that helps define Burlington’s identity, attracts tourism, and promotes small business success across the city and region.
Call to Action for Community Champions – The time to act is now!
We’re calling on community leaders, philanthropists, corporate partners, and anyone who believes in the power of music and arts to help. We urgently need a major sponsor or group of sponsors to join us in protecting this treasured event and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the joy, connection, and inclusivity that live music offers.
Why It Matters
In a time where connection and community are more important than ever, free and open access cultural experiences matter. The Sound of Music Festival is a safe space, a mental health booster, and a platform that breaks down barriers. It is one of the last of its kind—a rare event that remains completely free to attend, offering world–class performances to everyone, regardless of income or background. There is no barrier to entry!
This is more than a funding shortfall—it’s a community crossroads. Without immediate support, we risk losing a 45–year tradition that unites thousands in celebration every summer.
A tired, well past its “best before” date sign. Close to shabby.
Let’s Keep the Music Playing
If you are a business leader, a brand that values impact, or a citizen who wants to make a difference, we urge you to reach out. Sponsorship opportunities, legacy partnerships, and creative collaborations are all on the table.
Its time for change! Together, we can and must keep the music alive!
For more information or to schedule a conversation about sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Brent Kinnaird – VP Festival Operations
Dave Shepherd – Chairperson, Board of Directors
Julie Cole – Vice Chairperson, Board of Directors
Largest + Free is not/ never has been a winning formula, particularly for Burlington taxpayers. What would cause a corporation to sponsor SoM; maybe community goodwill but certainly not ROI. Intergenerational fans of free music would not be a market most companies would target! How about breaking the event up into various musical genres (i.e. rock, jazz, country) at different venues (i.e. Spencer Smith, Lasalle Park, Central Park), all with a nominal entrance fee? Ditch the “largest” and “free”, in favour of “best” and “affordable”. Both your audience & Burlington taxpayers will thank you. Good luck!
CANCEL IT !!!!
Council green-lit the $225K loan for the 2025 festival.
Most past debts were cleared thanks to private donations.
SoM is now under a formal agreement with accountability measures:
Must repay by Sept 1, 2025.
Must file a 2026 business plan by June 1, 2025.
Apparently,earlier options like pausing the festival or restructuring financial support were superseded by this agreement and loan.
It appears, that the June 01.25 to submit a “plan” has NOT been met. So do we wait and see if they pay the loan by Sept 01.25 ?
Accountability? The festival’s favourite SILENT instrument.
Or is this another missed deadline, another bailout ? — so Burlington.
This Sound of Music Festival must have left the organization owing a lot of money. Money that is owed to the City (taxpayers).
I have not seen any financials only pleas from the organization for a major sponsor or many smaller sponsors. If anyone else has please be good enough to post them here on the comment section.
There has to be a reason why major sponsorship has dried up.
Times change. What worked many years ago is not necessarily relevant today. There are many other options for people to spend their time and money.
The festival needs to totally revamp if they want sponsors.
Big is not always best.