Jazz artists have an opportunity to take their music to new audiences with Jazz Road Tours, a grant program offering financial support for touring artists.

Managed by South Arts and funded by the Doris Duke Foundation with additional support from the Mellon Foundation, Jazz Road Tours awards grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. These grants enable artists to organize three- to six-site tours in communities across the U.S., with a focus on reaching rural and underserved areas.

Supporting Artists, Expanding Jazz

The program prioritizes equitable pay for artists and creative autonomy. Tours are designed to allow performers to build momentum, refine their craft, and connect with diverse audiences. Artists can explore new venues, ranging from performing arts centers and jazz clubs to community centers and open-air markets.

“Jazz Road Tours is more than a funding opportunity,” said South Arts representatives. “It’s about fostering connections, expanding the reach of jazz, and providing artists with the tools they need to thrive.”

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include professional jazz artists or ensembles of up to 10 musicians, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must plan tours spanning three to six venues with a total distance of at least 250 miles.

Childcare expenses, social media support, tour management, and other non-musician costs are now eligible for up to $2,500 in grant funding, a policy updated in 2024.

Upcoming Deadlines

Jazz Road Tours will operate on regularly recurring application cycles through 2026. You can view all upcoming grant cycles and application deadlines here. Artists are encouraged to apply early to navigate the online application process.

Applications are reviewed by a panel of jazz experts, with decisions based on artistic merit, tour impact, and the ability to engage new audiences.

How to Get Started

Artists interested in applying can find detailed guidelines and a tour budget template on the South Arts website. South Arts also offers webinars to help applicants understand the program’s priorities and best practices.

For jazz musicians seeking to expand their reach and share their music with new communities, Jazz Road Tours provides both the funding and the framework to make it happen.

For more details, visit South Arts Jazz Road Tours.