Opera Grants for Women Composers: Discovery Grants support the development of new operas by women-identifying composers, advancing the important objective to increase gender parity and diversity across the field.

Discovery Grants support women composers in their exploration of opera as an artistic medium, providing funding for activities such as libretto readings, workshops, and working performances. 

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.

Opera Grants for Women Composers are supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

Grant Details

Opera Grants for Women Composers: Discovery Grants provide awards of up to $15,000.

Eligibility: Applicants must be cis or trans women composers who have U.S. citizenship, permanent residence, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. See the Guidelines below for additional eligibility requirements.

Important Dates & Deadlines

How to Apply

Review the grant guidelines and application worksheets to apply. All applications must be submitted through OPERA America’s grants dashboard.

Apply Now

Guidelines & Worksheets

• 2023–2024 Guidelines (PDF)
• Intent to Apply Questions (PDF)
• 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