2026 Iowa Blues Challenge

This competition will determine who will represent Iowa at the International Blues Challenge (IBC) in Memphis, Tennessee, where hundreds of blues acts from around the world gather on historic Beale Street to perform before music industry professionals, festival talent buyers, and media representatives. The IBC offers artists valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and the chance to advance their careers.
Competing acts will vie for a prize package that includes cash awards, paid performance opportunities (including, but not limited to, the Winter Blues Fest), and a travel stipend to help offset expenses for the International Blues Challenge. The Central Iowa Blues Society, an Affiliate of The Blues Foundation, is proud to send Iowa’s representatives to this prestigious international event.