IDEA Opera Grants (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) support new works by creators from the global majority

Initiated in 2019, IDEA Opera Grants are OPERA America’s first grant program designed with a racial equity lens. This annual grant supports the promotion and development of new works by artists who identify as one or more of these racial and ethnic heritages: Arab, Asian, Black, Latinx, Native American, and Pacific Islander.

OPERA America believes that different perspectives, cultural histories, life experiences, and personal stories enrich the operatic repertoire. OPERA America is dedicated to supporting creators who reflect the diversity of the nation.

IDEA Opera Grants are supported by the Charles and Cerise Jacobs Charitable Foundation.

Grant Details

IDEA Opera Grants provide $18,000 per team to support costs associated with the production of a workshop, reading, or other performance-based event and to create a high-quality video of the work in development. Team members also receive complimentary registrations, transportation, and a housing stipend (valued at $2,250) to attend OPERA America’s Opera Conference and New Works Forum.

Eligibility: IDEA Opera Grants are available to individual composers and/or librettists who identify as Arab, Asian, Black, Latinx, Native American, and/or Pacific Islander. At least 50 percent of team members must have United States citizenship, permanent residence, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. See the guidelines below for full eligibility details.

Application Information

The 2023–2024 IDEA Opera Grants have been awarded.

The guidelines and worksheets below, from the 2023–2024 grants, are provided for reference purposes only. 

Guidelines & Worksheets

• 2023–2024 Guidelines (PDF)
• Intent to Apply Questions (PDF)
• Full Application Questions (PDF)
• Budget Template (XLSX)

For questions about applications or eligibility, contact us at Grants@operaamerica.org or 646.699.5236.

Meet the Grantees