Project Support Main Round
Project Support Main Round supports ensembles, presenters, music service organizations, and record companies in standalone projects that build public knowledge and appreciation of contemporary American concert music and jazz.
Funder: Aaron Copland Fund for Music
Due Dates: July 24, 2026 (Account request) | July 30, 2026 (Preliminary application) | October 1, 2026 (Preliminary decision) | November 12, 2026 (Main application)
Funding Amounts: Generally $2,000–$20,000 for projects during September 1, 2026–August 31, 2027; larger awards possible
Summary: Supports standalone projects that increase public knowledge and appreciation of contemporary American concert music and jazz.
Key Information: Only organizations that submitted a preliminary application and received an invitation may apply to the Main Round.
Description
The Aaron Copland Fund for Music’s Project Support Program makes restricted grants for special projects and initiatives of exceptional importance to contemporary American concert music, jazz, or both. It supports performing ensembles, presenters, music service organizations, and record companies undertaking discrete, standalone activities that encourage public knowledge and appreciation of music by American composers.
Eligible work includes live performances, recordings and live streams, dance or theater with live music, sound installations, professional development, artist-in-residence and artist support programs, radio or podcasts, journalism and criticism, and library or archive programs. Projects may include touring, premieres, visual elements, and work with composers new to the organization. Independent peers assess artistic quality, programming creativity, feasibility, organizational context, geography, audience engagement, and potential impact.
