SoFi and CMA Partner With Kelsea Ballerini to Empower Emerging Artists Through ‘Amplify Your Ambitions’ Contest

SoFi, a one-stop shop for digital financial services, is teaming up with the Country Music Association and Kelsea Ballerini to launch the “Amplify Your Ambitions” contest, which aims to empower the next generation of emerging artists. The nationwide search gives artists the chance to win up to $200,000 and perform at an exclusive CMA Fest concert.

Now through April 30, artists can enter for the grand prize of $200,000 or one of two $50,000 runner-up prizes. SoFi will select three finalists, and a panel of judges across music and finance, alongside a public vote, will determine the winner. Judges include Ballerini, Vivian Tu, SoFi’s Chief of Financial Empowerment and founder of Your Rich BFF, and four-time GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter Shane McAnally.

The winner will be revealed on June 4, when all three finalists perform an intimate concert in Nashville in front of the judges. Entrants will be evaluated on the originality of their sound, the creativity of their storytelling, the quality of their performance, and how they intend to use this opportunity to grow and develop in their musical careers.

“I know firsthand how much it takes to build a career in music, especially when you’re funding it on your own,” said Ballerini. “That’s why I’m excited to partner with SoFi on this. We’re looking for artists with passion, determination, and a strong sense of who they are, artists who are not only committed to their craft but thoughtful about how they invest in themselves and their music.”

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The contest also highlights the reality that success in music often requires more than talent alone. According to SoFi, 75% of artists are self-funding their careers, with more than half carrying debt from their creative pursuits. Through “Amplify Your Ambitions,” SoFi aims to demonstrate how the assistance from financial tools and resources can help artists nationwide advance in their careers.

“At SoFi, we’re focused on helping people take control of their financial futures,” said Lauren Stafford Webb, Chief Marketing Officer at SoFi. “Our partnership with Kelsea and CMA reflects a shared commitment to investing in the next generation of artists and the fans who support them. As the presenting sponsor for CMA Fest, we’re extending our commitment by empowering SoFi members with the financial tools and support they need to build stability, grow their money, and make meaningful progress towards their long term goals.”

Aspiring artists who are musicians, solo artists or groups can submit entries at AmplifyYourAmbitions.com, running now through April 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Entrants must be 18 or older, U.S. residents, and have a registered SoFi account.

For official rules, please visit amplifyyourambitions.com/rules.