IDEA Opera Grants (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) provide support for the promotion and development of new works by artists of Color.

Initiated in 2019, IDEA Opera Grants are OPERA America’s first grant program designed with a racial equity lens. This program provides support for the promotion and development of new works by artists of Color.

OPERA America believes that different perspectives, cultural histories, life experiences, and personal stories enrich the operatic repertoire. OPERA America is committed 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

IDEA Opera Grants provide $18,000 per team to support costs associated with the production of a workshop, reading, or other performance-based event and to create a high-quality video of the work in development. Team members also receive complimentary registrations, transportation, and a housing stipend (valued at $2,250) to attend OPERA America’s Opera Conference and New Works Forum.

Eligibility: IDEA Opera Grants are available to individual composers and/or librettists of Color who identify as Arab, Asian, Black, Native American, and/or Pacific Islander. At least 50 percent of team members must have United States citizenship, permanent residence, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status.

Application Cycle

The 2022–2023 IDEA Opera Grants have been awarded. The deadlines for the 2023–2024 IDEA Opera Grants will be announced in summer 2023. 

The guidelines and worksheets below, from the 2022–2023 grants, are provided for reference purposes only. 

Guidelines & Worksheets

• 2022–2023 Guidelines (PDF)
• Intent to Apply Questions (PDF)
• Full Application Questions (PDF)
• Budget Template (XLSX)

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

Meet the Grantees