Bascom Little Fund

The Bascom Little Fund is a charitable trust dedicated to supporting the creation and performance of contemporary music by composers residing in Northeast Ohio. Founded to elevate new music initiatives, the Fund specifically provides support for public charities—primarily 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations—engaged in promoting the work of regional composers. Its mission is focused on enhancing the visibility and sustainability of contemporary music through live performances, recordings, and publications. The fund encourages partnerships between composers and established nonprofit entities, offering vital infrastructure and support that enable music projects to reach wider audiences. While individual composers and ensembles are key stakeholders, they must apply in collaboration with a qualifying 501(c)(3) organization or through fiscal sponsorship. The 2026 grant cycle is open from March 1 to May 1, 2026. Projects eligible for funding include live performances, recordings, videos, and similar dissemination efforts for contemporary works. However, the Fund does not support the commissioning of new compositions or operating expenses. Eligible composers must currently reside in the Northeast Ohio area, and additional priority is given to applicants who demonstrate support from other funding sources. Applicants are encouraged to review past grantees for examples of previously funded initiatives. Grant proposals are evaluated by a peer panel convened by the Fund. The selection process prioritizes several key criteria: artistic excellence and the professionalism of the ensemble, the ensemble’s ongoing commitment to performing contemporary music, and the financial viability of the project or season in question. Applicants are required to provide supplemental materials such as video or audio recordings and musical scores, particularly if they are new to the fund. All application materials must be submitted digitally. Award decisions will be communicated in writing by June 30. While the performance period is not explicitly stated, grantees must submit a final report, including project documentation, by May 1 of the funding year. Additionally, composers must provide a copy of the funded recording and program information to WCLV by June 1 of the funding year. These reporting obligations are essential to remain in good standing for future applications. Failure to submit these materials can affect eligibility in subsequent grant cycles. The application requires detailed information about the project, including the nature of the performance or recording, composer involvement, and financial details such as earned and contributed income, expenses, and total project budget. A budget narrative and listing of other confirmed funding sources are also mandatory. Furthermore, applicants must disclose details about their project partners, including financial contributions and composer residency status. Public acknowledgment of the Fund in promotional and program materials is required. Inquiries regarding the application process may be directed to the Fund’s email address at [email protected].

Highlight artistic quality, commitment to contemporary music, and demonstrate project completion ability.