Wavemakers is excited to announce a bold new initiative aimed at empowering women over 40. The groundbreaking program, titled “5 for 5 in ‘25,” will award five grants of $5,000 each to women in the process of completing a new music project in 2025.

The new initiative aimed at empowering women over 40, is funded by visionary artist and entrepreneur Lurleen Ladd. Through Ladd’s trailblazing organization, Wavemakers - Women in Music 40+, the program represents a powerful commitment to amplifying the voices of seasoned female artists and redefining their role in the industry.

Launched in 2023, Wavemakers was created to forge meaningful connections and generate lucrative opportunities for female artists over 40, such as facilitating collaborations with prominent brands and organizing events where artists can network and showcase their talent to industry leaders.

With the “5 for 5 in ‘25” initiative, Ladd and her team aim to spotlight the value of experience and resilience in the music world. “We are funding experience,” Ladd declared from the stage at the recent Wavemakers “Merry and Bright” Holiday Concert, held on December 12 at The 04 Center in Austin. The event, which hosted over 200 women creative professionals and entrepreneurs, marked the official announcement of this transformative grant program.

Applications for the grants will open on February 5, 2025, and close on March 5, 2025. Eligibility criteria include membership in Wavemakers (free to join) and residency in or near Austin, TX. The five grantees will be handpicked by Ladd and her team of Wavemakers, with the winners announced at a special event later in March.

This celebratory event will take place at the Kendra Rose Yellow Rose flagship jewelry store in Austin, owned by renowned designer Kendra Scott, a collaborator and supporter of Wavemakers. The partnership exemplifies the organization’s mission to facilitate the intersection of creativity and commerce for women musicians over 40.

At the Holiday Concert, Wavemakers showcased their vision in action.
Women-owned businesses were invited to sell their products and services during the event, while attendees enjoyed 30 door prizes, including a show-stopping grand prize: a limited-edition Dolly Parton x Kendra Scott Gold 1974 Butterfly Statement Necklace. This exclusive piece, inspired by Dolly Parton’s song “Like a Butterfly” and retailing at $350, epitomizes the synergy between artistry and entrepreneurship.

“The Butterfly necklace is the embodiment of creativity and commerce intersecting,” said Ladd. “My vision is for women artists who may doubt themselves—who think it’s too late to thrive in the music industry—to see Wavemakers and know that their dreams are still possible.”

Wavemakers is steadfast in its mission to empower women artists to excel at the “brand” level by positioning their music for licensing in commercials, films, and TV shows, as well as fostering partnerships with national and international brands to amplify their creative impact. With programs like “5 for 5 in ‘25” and vibrant events that bridge the gap between artistry and business, Wavemakers is redefining what’s possible for women in music.

Aspiring applicants and supporters are encouraged to check back periodically for updates on this exciting initiative.