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

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 housing stipend (valued at $2,250) to attend OPERA America’s Opera Conference and New Works Forum.

Grant recipients are not employees of OPERA America and awarded team members do not hold a contract with the organization. This funding is a gift from OPERA America to welcome team members into a community of support and encouragement in order to further their careers in opera.

Eligibility: IDEA Opera Grants are available to individual composers and/or librettists who identify with one or more of the following racial or ethnic heritages: Asian, Black/African American, Indigenous/Native American, Latiné/Hispanic, Middle Eastern or North African, and Pacific Islander. All team members must be United States citizens or permanent residents or possess Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. See the guidelines below for full eligibility details.

Important Dates & Deadlines

How to Apply

Review the guidelines and application questions before applying. All applications must be submitted through OPERA America’s Grants Portal.

Guidelines & Worksheets

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

Apply Now

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

Meet the Grantees