Support for Young Talent by the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation

The funding program of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation is aimed at public institutions, non-profit organizations, and educational establishments within the EU that wish to implement innovative musical projects for children and youth. Annually, twenty projects are supported with €25,000 each to promote active participation and music education in contemporary and experimental sound forms. Special attention is given to addressing all social strata to enable broad participation of young actors. Projects that integrate current compositional practices into interactive learning formats and open up an experimental approach to soundscapes are preferentially evaluated. The jury also pays attention to a clear educational approach and inclusive target group engagement.

Applications can only be submitted online between 01.07.2026 and 01.10.2026, with project commencement possible from 01.01.2027. Acceptance of the funding conditions is a prerequisite; each institution may submit a maximum of one application. A complete application includes the filled-out online form, a detailed financial plan, and a supplementary document of up to eight pages describing project objectives, involved institutions, and practical implementation. The decision is made by an expert jury, which evaluates according to the criteria of integration of contemporary music, experimental handling of sound, broad target group engagement, and depth of educational concept. This funding program offers committed project sponsors the opportunity to inspire children and youth playfully with avant-garde sound experiences and to sustainably encourage musical participation.