Chad Smith Foundation Welcomes Fender as Supporter of AMP Initiative
Fender® to provide guitars, basses and access to Fender Play in support of the Foundation's AMP Initiative, helping more young people discover the power of music.
November 4, 2026 – The Chad Smith Foundation (CSF) is proud to announce a collaboration with Fender, the world's leading guitar, bass and amplifier brand, to support its After-School Music Program (AMP) Initiative, helping bring instruments and music education resources to young people across the United States. Through the collaboration, Fender will provide guitars, basses and access to Fender Play, its interactive digital learning platform featuring step-by-step guitar, bass and ukulele lessons designed to help players build skills and confidence at their own pace.
“We’re excited to work with Fender in support of our AMP initiative to make music education more accessible. Their top-of-the-line equipment, combined with their passion for supporting musicians, will help us create meaningful opportunities for students to explore music and discover their creative potential.” — Lewis Smith, Executive Director, Chad Smith Foundation
Through this collaboration, Fender will support participating AMP locations with a selection of instruments and equipment, including Mini Stratocaster®, and Mini Precision Bass® models, Squier Sonic® Stratocaster packs, Affinity Series® Precision Bass packs, Fender amplifiers and more. Together with access to Fender Play®, these resources will complement in-person instruction, giving students additional opportunities to practice, build their skills and continue their musical development beyond the classroom.
“Music can change lives, and every kid deserves the opportunity to experience that firsthand. Picking up an instrument can spark creativity, build confidence and open doors that last a lifetime. We’re proud to partner with the Chad Smith Foundation to get instruments into the hands of young people and help inspire the next generation of players.” — Max Gutnik, Chief Product Officer, Fender Electronics & Digital
The collaboration brings together the Chad Smith Foundation's commitment to removing financial barriers to music education with Fender's instruments and learning resources. By equipping local AMP events with the tools needed for hands-on learning, the two organizations aim to create meaningful opportunities for young people to explore music, develop their abilities and experience the creativity and connection that come from playing an instrument.
About the AMP Initiative
The Chad Smith Foundation’s After-School Music Program (AMP) Initiative was created to eliminate financial barriers to music education by bringing free, structured music lessons directly into community organizations serving young people. Working alongside local partners, including Boys & Girls Clubs and other youth-serving organizations, CSF provides the instructors, instruments, equipment and educational resources necessary to establish sustainable after-school music programs.
AMP launched in Milwaukee in 2026 and is expanding into additional cities across the country. Students receive hands-on instruction in guitar, bass, drums and keyboard at no cost, with opportunities to develop their skills, collaborate with peers and experience the confidence and creativity that come with making music.
Fender’s involvement will help strengthen the AMP Initiative’s ability to reach more young people by making quality guitars, basses and music education resources available at participating locations.
About the Chad Smith Foundation
Co-founded by Chad Smith, drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Chad Smith Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to music education and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Through its core pillars of Inspiration, Access, and Support, the Foundation provides instruments, instruction, scholarships, and unique musical experiences to help young people across the country get started in music and keep them going.
About Fender Musical Instruments Corporation
Fender has been at the center of music and culture since 1946. As the world’s leading guitar, bass and amplifier brand, Fender has shaped the sound of modern music, creating instruments that have become part of defining moments in music and culture. Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) designs, manufactures and delivers instruments, amplifiers, effects, accessories, pro audio and digital products and experiences for players around the world. FMIC’s portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Fender Custom Shop, Fender Studio®, Jackson®, Gretsch® guitars, EVH®, Charvel®, Bigsby® and PreSonus®. Guided by a player-centric approach, Fender continues to combine craftsmanship, innovation and technology to support musicians throughout their creative journey — from learning and playing to performing, recording and creating. For more information visit www.fender.com.