Les Paul Foundation Grant

The Les Paul Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations across the United States that align with the legacy and mission of Les Paul by encouraging innovation in music education, performance, and production, as well as advancing STEM and STEAM programs. The foundation emphasizes support for programs that benefit students and individuals in challenging situations, ensuring the enduring influence of Les Paul's contributions to music, technology, and innovation. Additionally, the foundation provides grants for public exhibits that highlight Les Paul's life and achievements and supports medical research targeting tinnitus and other hearing-related conditions. All grants must tangibly tie back to the promotion or representation of Les Paul’s legacy. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based organizations with current 501(c)(3) public charity status as recognized by the IRS. The foundation explicitly excludes funding for individuals, political entities, religious organizations, business or labor groups, and any application that does not clearly articulate how Les Paul’s story will be shared through their proposed work. Submissions that fail to demonstrate this link will not be considered. Medical research proposals, while considered, must be directly relevant to curing tinnitus or improving hearing impairment. All other grant inquiries or types of funding must come via invitation from the foundation. Grant applications are accepted during two cycles each year. The first cycle has a submission deadline of January 15, with funding decisions communicated by April 1. The second cycle closes on September 15, with decisions released by December 1. Each organization may submit only one application per calendar year, regardless of outcome. This restriction ensures equitable access to funding and encourages thoughtful, focused proposals. Applications must be completed using the most current version of the official Les Paul Foundation application form. Older versions will automatically disqualify submissions. The completed form must be emailed to [email protected] for consideration. Paper copies may be printed for record-keeping, but email submission is mandatory. Applications must be thorough and include a completed organizational budget. No inquiries or follow-ups are permitted after submission, and all funding decisions are final. Successful applicants will receive payment following the official decision dates listed above. The foundation does not provide public commentary or updates during the review process and advises applicants not to contact them during the review period. The Les Paul Foundation continues to advance Les Paul’s legacy through this grantmaking strategy, affirming his commitment to innovation, creativity, and public impact. The foundation’s funding allows organizations to carry forward the inspiration and transformative spirit of Les Paul’s life, ensuring that future generations benefit from enhanced music education opportunities, greater scientific exploration, and broader public awareness of his unique contributions. With a strict focus on eligible nonprofit organizations and clearly defined funding tracks, the foundation fosters innovation while maintaining strong alignment with Les Paul’s lifelong values.