Ensemble Forward

About this program

Chamber Music America, supported by The New York Community Trust, offers Ensemble Forward grants of $10,000 to New York City–based chamber ensembles (2–10 musicians) to fund consultant‑led projects that strengthen organizational capacity and business development (e.g., strategic planning, marketing, audience assessment, financial planning, fundraising, and technology assessment). Eligible applicants must be based in one of the five NYC boroughs, perform Western European classical and/or contemporary chamber music, consist of 2–10 musicians (duos must be equal partners), have at least one U.S. citizen or permanent resident as the primary applicant/contact, and may be nonprofit or not; consultants must be U.S. business entities. Projects must occur Jan 1–Dec 31, 2026; awardees are required to participate in CMA Learning Residentials and regular check‑ins, and applications (via cma.submittable.com) are due by 11:59 PM ET on Sept 24, 2026 with consultant CVs, a consultant proposal with scope/fees, one audio sample (≤4 minutes, ≥50% ensemble), and three high‑resolution press photos. Grants cover up to $10,000 (program funds 100% of eligible expenses; up to $7,500 may pay consultant(s) and $2,500–$5,000 must compensate ensemble member time), are taxable, are paid 80% after the Grant Agreement and 20% on final report, and applicants must show how the project will advance the ensemble and identify additional funding if costs exceed $10,000.