Les Paul Foundation Grant

The Les Paul Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the United States that align with the legacy and mission of Les Paul, a pioneering figure in the fields of music and innovation. Founded to perpetuate Paul’s contributions to music and technology, the foundation offers funding to programs that inspire creative thinking through music education, recording initiatives, technological innovation, and medical research particularly focused on tinnitus and hearing loss. The foundation seeks to motivate the public and especially youth through storytelling and educational efforts that highlight Les Paul’s life and achievements. The grant opportunity emphasizes support for innovative music production and performance projects, as well as forward-thinking STEM and STEAM initiatives. Priority is given to proposals that show creative approaches to program implementation and demonstrate how they will actively share Les Paul’s story with participants or the wider public. The foundation explicitly does not fund individuals or political, religious, labor, or business organizations, nor does it support general operating expenses, capital campaigns, or event sponsorships. Funding is open only to organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status that operate in the United States. Two grant cycles are held annually, with deadlines of January 15 and September 15. Decision dates for funding announcements follow approximately 2.5 months later, on April 1 and December 1, respectively. Organizations may apply only once per calendar year. Applications must be submitted using the most current version of the foundation’s application form; prior versions will not be considered. Completed applications, along with all requested documents such as an organizational budget, should be submitted via email to info@lespaulfoundation.org. Grantees are selected based on alignment with the foundation’s mission, realistic budget and staffing proposals, and the extent to which Les Paul’s legacy is integrated into the programming. The foundation also requires that applicants demonstrate funding sources beyond the Les Paul Foundation and begin with a realistic funding request. Proposals for medical research are considered, especially those related to tinnitus and hearing impairment, and are typically submitted in partnership with the Hearing Health Foundation. The foundation has supported a wide range of organizations across the U.S., from schools and music centers to universities and medical research institutions. Examples of past recipients include the Grammy Museum, Guitars for Vets, Jazz House Kids, and the Hearing Health Foundation. While no specific funding amounts are listed for first-time or recurring grantees, successful applicants receive checks after the decision date. Organizations are discouraged from contacting the foundation post-submission and should rely on the provided timeline for decisions. All applications must clearly articulate how the project will share Les Paul’s legacy in a meaningful and visible way. Simply listing the foundation’s name or placing it on a plaque is not sufficient. Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review grant guidelines and FAQs available on the foundation’s website. For questions, applicants may contact the foundation at info@lespaulfoundation.org. The Les Paul Foundation’s office is located at 485 Underhill Blvd., Suite 108, Syosset, NY 11791.