The foundation administers a number of projects and awards supporting high quality band performance, conducting, and composition.

The foundation is named for John Philip Sousa, a prominent composer of American band music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

[2][3] Projects of the Sousa Foundation include funding for the main stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., honor bands, conducting competitions, awards for outstanding performing ensembles, and bringing attention to historic sites in band history.

[4]The Sudler Flag of Honor is typically considered to be the highest award a high school band can achieve.

The following are the recipients of the Sudler Flag since its inception in 1983:[4] The Sudler Cup is an award bestowed to identify, recognize and honor junior high and middle school concert band programs that have demonstrated particularly significant high standards of excellence in concert activities over a period of several years.

The trophy measures exactly 22.5 inches (57 cm) from the base to the tip of the drum major's mace; precisely the size of a standard 8 to 5 step in marching.

The following are the recipients of the Sudler Shield:[9] The Sudler Scroll recognizes and honors those community bands that have demonstrated particularly high standards of excellence in concert activities over a period of several years, and which have played a significant and leading role in the cultural and musical environment in their respective communities.