NAMM Foundation Expands Grantmaking for 2026

NAMM and the NAMM Foundation have announced more than $800,000 in grants to 57 charitable organizations, which represents the largest number of grants ever given to organizations from across all industry segments. The programs selected serve music makers across industry segments in 26 states and five countries and help provide access to music learning and career opportunities in a variety of communities and demographics, especially those who are underrepresented in the industry.

“Our unwavering commitment to supporting music making and workforce development for our industry has always been part of our core mission at NAMM,” said John Mlynczak, NAMM president and CEO. “With our industry in a regrowth phase, it is more vital than ever to be laser-focused on creating more music makers from a variety of backgrounds, communities and programs that further enrich arts and music in our society.” 

“This marks the most significant philanthropic endeavor from the NAMM Foundation, expanding on the spirit of generosity, compassion and hope that The NAMM Foundation has demonstrated since its founding,” said Julia Rubio, executive director of The NAMM Foundation. “Each of the programs selected support communities and neighbors who turn to music as an essential part of their daily their lives, reminding us that together, there is always reason for hope.”  

NAMM and The NAMM Foundation share a global vision to significantly grow and diversify the grantmaking program, with responsive investments that deepen impact, expand internationally, and balance representation across industry segments and funding priorities.

This year, The NAMM Foundation opened its grantmaking process to all eligible non-profit organizations in the U.S. and abroad, with funding decisions guided by an independent panel of industry experts. These efforts have significantly increased the capacity to create more music makers worldwide and The NAMM Foundation is ready to exponentially accelerate these efforts over the next decade.

“The NAMM Foundation helps us keep the student studio open as a pathway for young people returning from incarceration,” said Brandon Steppe, founder and executive director of The David’s Harp Foundation. “It’s a space where they explore creativity, build skills, and find mentorship through the platform of music. We’re grateful to partner with the foundation in using creativity as a bridge back to the community.”

A full list of 2026 NAMM Foundation Grant recipients can be found here: https://www.nammfoundation.org/global-grantmaking.

nammfoundation.org