The Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research is a division of the Institute for Music Leadership at the Eastman School of Music. The Center’s research and programming emphasizes the 21st Century evolution of the innovative ensemble, influenced by both the symphony orchestra and the chamber music traditions, with a focus on creative, artist-centered ensembles that reflect new models of artistic innovation, organizational relationships, and operational sustainability.

The Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research Grant provides funding for research and innovative projects. The October 2021 grant cycle is open to all applicants. The March 2022 grant cycle will be reserved for Eastman students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the organizations they represent. Grants will range from $500-$2,000.  Grant proposals for $2,000 or less are most likely to be funded, but in special circumstances, higher grant proposals will be considered.

October 2021 and March 2022 Funding Priorities:

• The PRJC recognizes that the music profession must engage in systemic and transformational change in pursuit of a more just and equitable arts ecosystem. The time is now for all musical arts organizations to take bold and decisive actions to enact structural change. The integrity of the entire music profession – from the individual musician to the largest orchestra – is dependent upon these actions. To that end, the 2021-22 PRJC grant program will support innovative projects and research focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in all elements of our profession, with a prioritization of projects that advance anti-racism work in the arts. The PRJC seeks projects and research that have potential for lasting and sustainable change in our field.

Who Can Apply

• The October 2021 grant cycle is open to all applicants. The March 2022 grant cycle will be reserved for Eastman students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the organizations they represent. There is no restriction in terms of age or professional level.  Students are encouraged to apply.  Previous grantees are eligible to apply and receive awards each year; there is no restriction on the number of consecutive awards a group or individual can receive.  However, priority will be given to groups and individuals who have not previously received an award from this program.

Instructions for Applying

• All proposals must be submitted via the form at the bottom of this page by October 1, 2021 at 11:59pm eastern time or March 1, 2022 at 11:59pm eastern time. Please note: The Paul R. Judy Center is interested in supporting creative and innovative projects by funding expenses that are directly related to the proposed project. Funding for capital expenses such as technology purchases are possible but less appealing to the grant committee.

Learn More and apply HERE