The Johnny Mercer Foundation
Official website of The Johnny Mercer Foundation (JMF), which supports songwriting and educator initiatives in the tradition of the Great American Songbook. The site describes funded songwriter residencies and educator programs (e.g., Young Songwriters Intensive at Snow Pond, Songwriters Project at Belmont) and provides partnership/giving information.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
An established arts or music-education organization (songwriting residencies, university songwriting programs, theatres or program partners) with demonstrated program delivery and an ability to provide a video portfolio.
Good Fit
- • Clear programming in songwriting, composer residencies, or music education aligned with the Great American Songbook tradition
- • Organizational track record and partnerships with universities, theatres, or established music institutes
- • Capacity to supply a video portfolio or YouTube samples as requested in the application
- • Willingness to accept restricted program funding or structured residency support
Geography
In the latest year grants went to organizations in five different states (including IL, CT, CA, GA, NY), with roughly one third of dollars to Illinois; giving is multi-state rather than narrowly local.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows five distinct, independent recipients (universities, theatres, institutes), but the program funds a small, repeat set each year rather than a large, highly diversified portfolio.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of turnover is limited to two years: one new recipient appeared in the most recent year while four recipients repeated. A public application route exists, so new entrants are possible, but the high repeat rate indicates selective, relationship-influenced awarding.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
