These grants are designed to support independent artists, creators, and music projects across genres, offering funding for areas such as recording, touring, creative development, community engagement, and professional growth. Many of these programs do not require major label backing or high streaming numbers, strong proposals and clear artistic vision are key.
DLH Media Group is actively assisting artists who:
- Need support writing or refining grant proposals
- Require help structuring project budgets and narratives
- Are seeking a trusted industry reference or endorsement as part of their application
Our team has experience guiding artists through competitive opportunities and helping position projects in a way that aligns with grant criteria and funding priorities.
If you are interested in applying for upcoming music grants or would like support during the application process, please reply to this email or reach out directly so we can discuss eligibility, deadlines, and next steps.
New Music Creator Fund (New Music USA).
National grant program supporting the creation and development of original music across all genres.
Who can apply: Individual U.S.–based music creators, including composers, songwriters, producers, and collaborators. No nonprofit status required.
Grant amounts: Typically $3,000–$5,000; select awards up to $10,000.
Projects: Supports creation, recording, collaboration, equipment, artist fees, professional development, and related project costs.
Next cycle (Closed) : Applications typically open in early November and close mid-November. Clients who filled out an application with DLH Media Group can expect announcements in Spring/Summer 2026.
Best suited for independent artists creating original work without needing a fiscal sponsor.
Levitt Festival Grants.
Funding for free outdoor concert series that present professional musicians.
Who can apply: U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations presenting live music.
Grant amounts: Varies; supports multiple concerts within a festival series.
Projects: Artist performance fees, production costs, marketing, and community engagement for free public concerts.
Next cycle: Application deadline January 30, 2026.
Artists participate through booking by funded festivals.
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) – Grants for the Arts Projects.
Federal arts funding supporting music projects nationwide.
Who can apply: Nonprofit organizations, local arts agencies, and educational institutions, often through 501(c)(3) sponsorship.
Grant amounts: Varies; requires matching funds.
Projects: Concerts, recordings, music education, community engagement, and public music programming.
Next cycle: Two deadlines annually, typically February and July.
Strong option when partnering with an organization or fiscal sponsor.
National Endowment for the Arts – Challenge America.
Federal grant focused on equity and underserved communities.
Who can apply: Small nonprofit organizations and local agencies; artists apply through sponsorship.
Grant amounts: Approximately $10,000.
Projects: Community-based music projects, education initiatives, and public engagement programs.
Next cycle: Typically Spring (around April).
Best for projects serving historically underserved populations.
Amphion Grant Program.
Foundation funding supporting music by American composers.
Who can apply: U.S.-based nonprofit organizations presenting music by American composers.
Grant amounts: Varies by project.
Projects: Performances, commissions, recordings, and composer-centered programming.
Next cycle: Account registration deadline February 20, 2026; applications due shortly after.
Most relevant for composer-focused and contemporary music projects.
Jazz Road Tours (South Arts).
National touring grant supporting professional jazz artists performing across U.S. communities.
Who can apply: Professional jazz artists and ensembles based in the United States.
Grant amounts: $5,000–$15,000.
Projects: Supports touring costs including artist fees, travel, lodging, marketing, and community engagement activities.
Next cycle: Multiple application cycles throughout the year; deadlines announced periodically.
Ideal for jazz and jazz-adjacent artists planning multi-city tours.
Jazz Road Creative Residencies (South Arts).
Grant supporting immersive jazz residencies and community-based creative projects.
Who can apply: Jazz artists or ensembles working with a host organization or community partner.
Grant amounts: $5,000–$40,000.
Projects: Artist-led residencies, educational programs, creative development, and community engagement initiatives.
Next cycle: Annual cycles; deadlines typically announced Spring–Summer.
Best for artists developing deeper creative or educational programming.
State & City Arts Council Music Grants.
Regional public funding for local artists and arts projects.
Who can apply: Artists and organizations residing or operating within specific cities or states.
Grant amounts: Varies by region.
Projects: Recording projects, performances, community programming, and artistic development.
Next cycle: Varies by jurisdiction; commonly Spring or Fall.
Often the most accessible grants for individual artists.
Email our office if you need help applying for any of the grants listed or to find grants in your state and city council.