Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants

The Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund, administered by the DeKalb County Community Foundation, is a dedicated philanthropic program focused on advancing music education. This grantmaking initiative originates from the legacy of the Wurlitzer family, notably Farny R. Wurlitzer, whose contributions to the music industry date back to the 19th century. Wurlitzer's influence in musical instrument manufacturing and retail spanned decades and left a deep cultural and educational impact, particularly in DeKalb County, Illinois. The Foundation was established in the 1940s and has undergone structural transitions to ensure its sustainability, including its conversion into a Field of Interest Fund in 2021 under the management of the Community Foundation. The Wurlitzer Foundation Fund supports nonprofit and public sector organizations that offer impactful music education programs. Preference is given to applicants serving DeKalb County, although organizations throughout the greater Chicagoland area may also be considered if funding is available. The program emphasizes initiatives that address unmet needs in music education, particularly those benefiting underserved populations, and supports both new and existing projects. Examples of funded activities include curriculum enhancement, collaborative efforts between institutions, youth-focused programming, scholarships, and innovative approaches to music learning. The grant is structured as a competitive, twice-yearly funding opportunity. Applications are due by March 1 and September 1 annually, with the submission portal opening two months prior to each deadline. All applications must be submitted online through the Community Foundation’s website. Hard copy submissions are not accepted. Awards are announced around May 1 for spring applicants and November 1 for fall applicants. Grants are typically one-time awards with a project completion window of one year, although longer commitments may be made in select cases. Funding decisions are made by the Wurlitzer Foundation Board of Advisors. Eligibility extends to 501(c)(3) organizations and public institutions, including schools and universities. However, schools must include a support letter from district leadership aligning the proposed project with strategic priorities. Within universities, individual departments are treated as separate entities for eligibility purposes. Each eligible unit may only receive one grant every two cycles, ensuring equitable access. Additionally, applicants must fulfill all reporting obligations from prior awards to qualify for new funding. If a grant is declined after award, the organization becomes ineligible for the following cycle. Matching funds or in-kind support are not required but are encouraged, especially when they demonstrate broader community engagement or financial sustainability. While FRWFF retains flexibility, certain exclusions apply: religious or political activities, music performance lacking educational components, capital or operational debt relief, and scholarships to individuals are not eligible. Funds cannot be used to support the broader operations of national, state, or regional entities if the applicant is a local affiliate. Recipients must sign a grant agreement within 48 hours of the award notice and submit a final report within 10 months of the grant date. The Foundation expects accountability and timely communication regarding any changes in scope, staffing, or timelines. Questions should be directed to George Buck, Arts & Culture Consultant, at [email protected]. Additional guidance and full application requirements are detailed in the published grant guidelines.

Provide clear budget rationale and ensure alignment with strategic educational goals. Avoid submitting repeat proposals for identical projects.