Advancement of Music Grants

The Presser Foundation, established in 1939, offers grants between $2,500 and $50,000 to support music organizations across diverse genres. Focused on fostering music education and philanthropy, the Foundation seeks to empower non-profit, 501(c)(3) organizations within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. However, it does not fund theater or dance productions. Proposals are evaluated based on organizational accomplishments, community value, stability, and overall contributions to the music community.

Introduction & Purpose
The Committee for the Advancement of Music considers requests for grants typically between $2,500 and $50,000 annually for general operating support of music organizations working in a broad range of traditions, genres, and styles. The Trustees of The Presser Foundation established the Advancement of Music grantmaking area to provide flexible funding to music-focused organizations. The Presser Foundation does not support theater, commercial music theater, dance, or other non-music productions.
Proposals will be judged on:
the strengths and accomplishments of the applicant organization;the value of the organization’s program to the community;the history and stability of the organization; andthe contribution of the organization to the overall music community.

Eligibility

Non-profit, 501(c)(3) music performance, music presenting or music education organizations.Pre-collegiate music education organizations include: after school music programs, community music schools, music preparatory divisions and youth instrumental and vocal programs.Organizations that are in Pennsylvania (including Harrisburg), New Jersey, Delaware or Maryland and are within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia are eligible to apply.Institutions with whom the Foundation has a long funding history may be invited to apply for multi-year support.

Ineligibility

Organizations in the New York and Baltimore metropolitan areas will not be considered for funding.The Presser Foundation does not support theater, commercial music theater, dance or other non-music productions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations primarily focused on music education, performance, or presenting, based in and serving Greater Philadelphia (listed counties in PA, NJ and New Castle County, DE); operating budget of at least $20,000 or at least five years in existence. Pre-K-12 and post-secondary schools, theater, musical theater and dance are ineligible.