IDEA Opera Grants (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) support composers and librettists from the global majority in the development and promotion of new operatic works.

Initiated in 2019, IDEA Opera Grants are OPERA America’s first grant program designed with a racial equity lens. This annual grant supports the promotion and development of new works by artists who identify as one or more of these racial and ethnic heritages, which have historically encountered barriers in opera: Asian, Black/African American, Indigenous/Native American, Latiné/Hispanic, Middle Eastern or North African, and Pacific Islander.

OPERA America believes that different perspectives, cultural histories, life experiences, and personal stories enrich the operatic repertoire. OPERA America is dedicated to supporting creators who reflect the diversity of the nation.

IDEA Opera Grants are supported by the Charles and Cerise Jacobs Charitable Foundation.

Grant Details

The 2025 IDEA Opera Grants have been awarded.

The guidelines and worksheets below, from the 2025 grants, are provided for reference purposes only. 

Guidelines & Worksheets

• 2025 Guidelines (PDF)
• Intent to Apply Questions (PDF)
• Full Application Questions (PDF)
• Budget Template (XLSX)

For questions, contact us at Grants@operaamerica.org or 646.699.5236.

Meet the Grantees