Congratulations to Connor Berkompas, Laila Franklin, Alyssa Payne, and Carlos Vargas on being selected as the 2025 grant recipients! Learn more below.
The Boston Conservatory at Berklee Alumni Grant is designed to support alumni in realizing their creative projects by providing the resources needed to explore and develop their unique artistic visions. Through this grant, Boston Conservatory Alumni Affairs funds innovative projects that push boundaries and foster the growth of alumni as dynamic, creative leaders. By supporting projects that inspire and deepen artistic practice, the grant empowers artists to create transformative work while strengthening a vibrant network of alumni who are shaping the future of the arts.
Visit our
Alumni Grant FAQ page for more information and email
Georgia Lipari with any questions.
2025 Grant Recipients
Connor Berkompas (BFA ‘17, theater) and the Minneapolis debut of DANCING ANIMALS, an 'explosive new dance-theater work'.
Laila Franklin (BFA ‘19, contemporary dance) and BABYBABYBABY at Philly Fringe Festival.
Alyssa Payne (BFA ‘22, theater) and F Word, a new musical about aging out of the foster care system.
Carlos Vargas (BM ‘09, MM ‘11, piano) and Roxbury Concert Series.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be alumni of Boston Conservatory at Berklee (formerly known as Boston Conservatory).
- The application must list all collaborators, which may include alumni, current students, or non-Conservatory-affiliated individuals. If collaborating with fellow Conservatory alumni, only one application needs to be submitted.
- Alumni grants are available for projects located outside of Boston, as well as within the city.
- Alumni grants will not support traditional competitions, summer festivals, or intensive programs.
- Successful applicants must assume leadership roles in their funded projects.
Selection Criteria
Alumni entrepreneurial grant applications will be reviewed by a panel of staff from Alumni Affairs and the Office of the Executive Director. Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- a clear and concise description of the project, including its purpose and expected benefits
- a realistic and achievable project timeline
- a well-organized budget and marketing plan
- a sustainable approach to the project, with consideration for long-term impact and future endeavors
- relevant media or materials that support and align with the project’s vision
- a clear demonstration of the need for the grant to support the project
Application Cycle
The grant cycle occurs annually in the spring. The intended schedule for the
2025 Grant Program is as follows:
- Applications open: Friday, February 7
- Application deadline: Friday, March 21
- Review: throughout March
- Winners announced: end of April
Grant Projects
Alumni grant projects can vary in vision and scope, but should demonstrate clear value and benefit to the community beyond Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Successful applicants will incorporate elements of diversity and inclusion in their proposals. Examples of potential grant-funded projects include (but are not limited to):
- developing interdisciplinary partnerships within the performing arts community
- launching new performing arts management initiatives
- exploring unique performance styles, venues, and audiences
- creating innovative applications to enhance the study and appreciation of the performing arts
- providing supplementary artistic programming, education, or activities for the broader community
Awards and Funding
Grant awards are variable, and the committee may choose to partially fund projects. Successfully funded projects must be completed within one year of the grant award. Funds are designated exclusively for the project and may not be used for personal compensation.
Awardees will also be offered an interview for publication on the Boston Conservatory at Berklee website and social media platforms, as well as consultation on marketing and branding with the Alumni Affairs Director of Digital Engagement. Awardees are required to collaborate with Alumni Affairs on strategy and career-related meetings, opportunities, and initiatives. Additionally, awardees must provide high-resolution photography and video documentation of their projects to Alumni Affairs.
Learn more about past recipients below.
2024 Grant Recipients
- Leah Abbott (BFA '21, contemporary dance) and the Welcome Home: Trust youRSELF project, commissioned by Boston Moving Arts
- Esther Farley (BFA '21, contemporary dance) and Bodies of Water
- Zeniba Now (BFA '14, musical theater) and The Thirst Trap musical
2023 Grant Recipients
2019 Grant Recipients
2018 Grant Recipients
Previous Recipients
