The Amphion Foundation Incorporated
The Amphion Foundation, Inc., founded in 1987 by Elliott and Helen Carter, supports the performance of contemporary concert music (especially by American composers) through grant programs such as the Amphion Grant Program and the Elliott Carter Special Grant Program. The foundation is based in New York (c/o Alter, Kendrick & Baron, LLP) and publishes program guidelines, deadlines, and recent news on its site.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A nonprofit or ensemble that programs or presents contemporary concert music (especially American composers) seeking modest project or operational support aligned with the foundation's grant programs.
Good Fit
- • Proposals focused on performance of contemporary concert music or support for American composers.
- • Requests in the small-to-midsize range (typical grants are a few thousand dollars up to mid-five figures).
- • Clear, concise letter-format applications that follow the published guidelines.
- • Organizations willing to be added as new grantees (the foundation funds many first-time recipients).
Geography
Observed grants in the latest year went to recipients in 33 states with in-state (NY) share of about 43%, showing a national multi-state footprint despite a New York concentration.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 202 distinct recipients and many small grants across ensembles, presenters, and service organizations, indicating a broad and diverse recipient set rather than a tight closed circle.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of openness includes published application information and a visible grants manager, and behaviorally 145 of 202 recipients in 2024 were new to the portfolio, suggesting unfamiliar applicants can and do gain awards.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
