Jazz Road Tours provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to jazz artists for three- to six-site tours in diverse communities across the United States. The program emphasizes reaching rural areas and regions that are traditionally underserved by jazz. Approximately 50 grants are awarded annually, funded by the Doris Duke Foundation with additional support from the Mellon Foundation. Grants can cover expenses like travel, accommodations, artist fees, and up to $2,500 for non-musician personnel costs.

Eligible tours must include three to six performance sites, and applicants must comply with applicable tax laws since grant funds are taxable. Tours should aim to build connections with new audiences and enrich communities through live jazz performances. The program supports both emerging and established jazz artists.

Applications for the January 1, 2025, to July 1, 2025, tour period open on July 15, 2024, with a deadline of September 3, 2024, and notifications by November 15, 2024. For tours scheduled between April 1, 2025, and October 4, 2025, applications open on October 15, 2024, with a December 1, 2024, deadline and notifications by February 15, 2025. Additional application cycles will continue through 2026.

Artists are encouraged to participate in informational webinars to better understand the application process. The program aims to foster creative opportunities, bring jazz to new audiences, and provide meaningful support for artists to expand their reach.