Capital Support Grant

The Presser Foundation Capital Support Grant is an initiative designed to provide financial assistance for capital projects in music-focused nonprofit organizations. Originating from the vision of Theodore Presser, whose will emphasized the importance of building infrastructure to support music education and performance, this grantmaking program was formalized through the establishment of the Capital Support Committee. The program typically provides funding ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 to qualifying organizations annually, supporting diverse music traditions, genres, and styles. However, it explicitly excludes theater, dance, commercial music theater, and non-music-centric institutions. Capital Support grants are intended for significant, tangible infrastructure improvements. Examples of eligible projects include the construction of new music buildings, renovation or repair of music facilities, and investment in capital assets such as audio/visual equipment, software like GarageBand, and other fixed needs essential to enhancing music programming. The funding is not available for operational costs, instruments, or general maintenance activities that recur annually. The Foundation aims to make music spaces more functional, accessible, collaborative, and innovative—ultimately enhancing the experiences of students, performers, and audiences alike. In the 2024–25 fiscal cycle, Capital Support grants represented 22% of the Foundation’s total distributed funds, amounting to $834,120 out of $3.73 million. This reflects a continued commitment to the sustainability and advancement of music education and performance spaces. The Foundation carefully selects grantees based on how well the project aligns with their core values and long-standing emphasis on equity, community impact, and musical excellence. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit 501(c)(3) music performance, presenting, or pre-collegiate education organizations located within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. This includes eligible regions in Pennsylvania (including Harrisburg), New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, but excludes organizations located in the New York and Baltimore metropolitan areas. Importantly, "legacy" institutions—defined as those previously supported by Theodore Presser or bearing the “Presser” name—may be considered for support regardless of location, especially for significant capital projects. The grant application process closes on February 1, 2026, and selected applicants will be notified of decisions by May 1, 2026. Multi-year requests are allowed, with the initial disbursement made at the commencement of construction. Applications are evaluated on several criteria, including the strength of the organization, the relevance of its programming to community needs, its commitment to equity and accessibility, and the feasibility and potential impact of the proposed project. Any significant deviation from the approved project scope requires prior approval from the Foundation to prevent potential revocation of funds or suspension from future consideration. Applicants must demonstrate how their music programming supports community engagement and contributes meaningfully to the regional or national music landscape. Through this initiative, The Presser Foundation continues its mission to ensure that music education and performance remain vibrant, inclusive, and well-resourced for the generations to come.