#USA #Los Angeles #Levitt Foundation #Music Grants #Free Concerts

The Levitt Foundation's Exciting New Grant Initiative

The Levitt Foundation, recognized for fostering vibrant community engagements through music, is thrilled to announce the launch of its multi-year Levitt Music Series Grants. This initiative, worth up to $120,000 over three years, seeks to leverage the power of live music to enrich public spaces and unite communities in joy and celebration.

Opening the Application Period

As of May 1, 2025, applications are now open for organizations across the nation wishing to partake in this generous grant program. Nonprofits recognized under 501(c)(3) can apply to receive matching grants of up to $40,000 yearly to hold 7-10 free outdoor concerts. These concerts are vital for reviving public spaces that may otherwise go underutilized, transforming them into hubs of community joy and gathering.

A Nationwide Impact

The Levitt Music Series is not limited to urban centers; it embraces communities of all sizes. From small towns with populations under 2,000 to major metropolitan cities, the initiative reaches diverse demographics. It serves as a platform for both well-established artists and emerging talent, covering a vast array of music genres including pop, folk, jazz, country, and beyond.

Since the program's inception in 2015, the Levitt Foundation has successfully funded music series in over 50 communities, helping to cultivate local economies and enhancing community pride. Notably, live music acts as a powerful connector, bringing individuals from various backgrounds together to enjoy shared experiences.

Important Dates

The final selection of grant recipients will take place through a public voting process scheduled for September 2025, with winners announced in November. Interested nonprofits are encouraged to review eligibility criteria and submit their applications between May 1 and June 30, 2025.

Sharon Yazowski, President and CEO of the Levitt Foundation, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative effects of free live concerts—adding vibrancy, pride, and a sense of belonging to communities across the country.”

Different Grant Categories

The Levitt Music Series Grants are categorized into three distinct programs:
1. Levitt AMP: Tailored for towns and cities with populations up to 250,000.
2. Levitt VIBE: Created for larger urban environments with populations exceeding 250,000.
3. Levitt BLOC: Designed for areas of any size, leveraging multiple public spaces.

All applicants must demonstrate their capability to secure matching funds, fostering collaboration with local businesses and donors. Up to half of the funds may be acquired through in-kind contributions, such as equipment donations or volunteer services. Additionally, applicants selected to move to the public voting stage will receive a $1,500 mini-grant to support their promotional efforts.

Advancing Community Music Ecosystems

In a continuing commitment to enhance local music ecosystems, the Levitt Foundation also participates in partnerships enhancing grant opportunities in Tennessee and Mississippi. Tennessee communities will benefit from additional multi-year matching grants, while Mississippi-based nonprofits are set to receive combined grants to create public art installations alongside their concert series.

How to Apply and Get Involved

For those interested in applying for the Levitt Music Series Grants, comprehensive eligibility criteria, guidelines, and application processes can be accessed via levitt.org/music-series-grants. The foundation invites all eligible nonprofits to apply and leverage the power of music in enriching their communities.

Conclusion

The Levitt Foundation's grant initiative illustrates the profound impact that free, live music can have on communities nationwide. By combining concerts with vibrant public spaces, the foundation continues to cultivate a thriving cultural landscape, making communities more connected, resilient, and fulfilling for all their residents.

With over 650 free concerts being hosted in 2025 across America, each performance not only entertains but also fosters a deeper sense of belonging and unity—a testament to the foundation's vision for strong, joyous communities.