Grants for Nonprofits - Humanities

The Spotlight on Humanities in Higher Education program, run by the NEH Division of Education Programs, provides funding for small projects that enhance humanities education at smaller colleges and universities, particularly those serving underserved populations, with a focus on community colleges, minority-serving institutions, rural schools, and institutions where over 40% of students receive Pell grants.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in Oklahoma to create engaging cultural experiences that explore local history and heritage through public programs and events.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas, to create accessible and lasting public arts projects that enrich community life.

The Cameron Charitable Trust offers grants primarily to charitable organizations in North Carolina, focusing on supporting indigent or sick persons. The trust's mission is directly aligned with alleviating hardship and promoting well-being among vulnerable populations in the state. Through its grantmaking, the foundation aims to empower organizations that deliver essential health and human services, thereby contributing to a healthier and more supportive community for those most in need. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are organizations that serve the poor, needy, ill, and infirm. The Trust seeks to support initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of these individuals, with an implicit impact goal of improving access to care, essential services, and overall quality of life for the target population. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the emphasis on making a "real difference" suggests an expectation of significant, positive change for the beneficiaries. The Trust's grantmaking priorities are clear: preference is given to charities with a proven track record of fiscal responsibility, characterized by wise and efficient use of funds and minimal overhead. This strategic focus ensures that grants have maximum impact and are not diluted by excessive administrative costs. Situations where a grant can genuinely transform circumstances are particularly favored, indicating a desire for catalytic funding rather than simply maintaining existing services. While a formal "theory of change" is not articulated, the Trust's strategic priorities imply a belief that by supporting efficient, impactful charities focused on the indigent and sick, they can directly contribute to improved health outcomes and human services in North Carolina. The average grant size of $125,000 to $175,000 and average total annual giving of $850,000 suggest a commitment to substantial funding that can enable significant program delivery and sustainable operations for recipient organizations. Eligibility requires organizations to be classified as exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, further ensuring their charitable status and accountability.

The Creative Howard grant program is offered by the Howard County Arts Council (HCAC) to support small nonprofit arts organizations and arts businesses in Howard County, Maryland. The program aims to strengthen the vitality of the arts community and provide funding for eligible activities. Grants of up to $2,500 are available, and there is no matching fund requirement. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit arts organizations or arts businesses located and operating in Howard County for at least one year with an operating revenue of $100,000 or less. The program supports a wide range of arts activities, including dance, design, folk and traditional arts, history exhibits, literature, media arts, music, theater, visual arts, and workshops. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis with a deadline of the first day of each month at 11:59 PM. The grant period for FY24 is from September 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Applicants may receive funding for only one application per fiscal year. The application process must be completed online using the Submittable platform. A final report is required within 15 business days after the funded project occurs.

This funding opportunity supports U.S.-based nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies in conducting research on the value and impact of the humanities, including topics like public perception, education, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Public-Space Activation Fund (PAF) is a grant opportunity offered by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. The grant program aims to fund temporary, creative projects in public spaces within LA City neighborhoods where arts and culture are absent or scarce. The funding levels range from $600 to $45,000, depending on the category and complexity of the proposed projects. The grant is open for monthly submissions from October 2023 to July 2024. Eligible applicants include Los Angeles-based community entrepreneurs, independent artists, cultural activists, nonprofit organizations, and collaborative partnerships under the stewardship of one lead-agent. There are four categories under PAF: Neighborhood Expressions (NE), Arts and Social Wellness (ASW), International Festivals & Intercultural Foods (IFIF), and International Participation And Promotion Projects (IPAPP). Each category has specific requirements and funding ranges. The primary aim of PAF is to activate designated public spaces through creative-connectivity for well-defined audiences. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024, at 12:00 am. For more information on eligibility requirements and application instructions, prospective applicants are encouraged to refer to the PAF program guidelines available at dcaredesign.org/artsactivate or contact Armando Smith at armando.smith@lacity.org or Ben Espinosa at ben.espinosa@lacity.org.

This funding opportunity supports local nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in Culpeper, Madison, and Orange counties to implement health and wellness initiatives that benefit the community.

The Highland Lakes Service League is inviting applications for its Community Grants program, aimed at enhancing the Highland Lakes area through various focus areas including the promotion of animal welfare, cultivation of arts and culture, improvement in education, provision of basic human services, and promotion of recreation and public spaces. The grants program is open to 501(c)(3) organizations serving Burnet or Llano counties in Texas. Applications are accepted annually from June 15th to August 31st. The grant amounts are not specified. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/ closing deadlines: June 15th to August 31st

The Delaware Division of the Arts awards Arts Access Grants to support the presentation of performing, visual, literary, media, or folk arts in communities throughout Delaware. These grants aim to provide experiences of artistic merit, support arts programs in new venues, foster collaboration, reach underserved audiences, and promote the creation of new works and conservation of diverse cultural traditions. Eligible applicants include municipal, county, or state government units within Delaware, and Delaware-based nonprofit organizations exempt from federal income tax under specific sections of the Internal Revenue Code. Applicants may request up to 80% of eligible expenses, not exceeding $1,250. The grants focus on projects that provide increased access to the arts, especially in underserved communities, and demonstrate effective management and marketing.

The Opportunity Grants by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, offering up to $10,000 for a 12-month period, are designed to stimulate and support new or existing programs, projects, or capital investments of nonprofit organizations serving Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties in South Carolina, excluding general operating support, religious, political activities, and scholarships among others.

The Landmarks Illinois Banterra Bank Preserve Southern Illinois Grant Program is designed to support the preservation of historic properties for economic development purposes. This grant program, funded by Landmarks Illinois, aligns with the foundation's mission to protect and preserve valuable historic structures, particularly those facing significant threats. By focusing on commercial properties, the program aims to stimulate economic growth within Southern Illinois while ensuring the longevity of its architectural heritage. The primary beneficiaries of this program are owners of significant structures located near commercial corridors in the DCEO Southern Region of Illinois. Eligible applicants include commercial property owners, nonprofits, and governmental bodies who have legal control over the structure or site and possess the capacity to manage grant funds effectively. The impact goal is to empower these beneficiaries to undertake critical preservation work, contributing to both the cultural richness and economic vitality of their communities. The program prioritizes projects that benefit identified Eligible Structures and address critical preservation issues, with a strong emphasis on properties listed on the Most Endangered Historic Places list. The focus is specifically on preserving commercial properties to foster economic development. All preservation work funded through the program must adhere to the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, ensuring high-quality, historically sensitive interventions. Services covered by the grant include various stages of preservation, from studies and assessments to stabilization, rehabilitation, surveys, and nominations. Expected outcomes include the successful preservation of historic commercial properties, leading to their continued use and contribution to local economies. Measurable results will include the number of projects completed, the types of services rendered, and the overall impact on economic development within the targeted counties. The grants are awarded on a matching basis, ranging from $500 to $2,500, requiring applicants to demonstrate commitment through their own financial contributions. A follow-up report is required from all grant recipients to document the project's progress and outcomes, allowing Landmarks Illinois to assess the program's effectiveness and impact in line with its strategic priorities for historic preservation and community development.

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Office of Challenge Programs is accepting applications for Graduate Education in the Humanities: A National Convening, a cooperative agreement to plan and host a national convening to evaluate the current state of graduate education in the humanities, to make recommendations for programs to prepare graduate students for a variety of humanities-related careers, and to develop a roadmap that articulates a strategic vision for graduate education in the humanities. The project will be funded through a combination of federal matching funds and related fundraising from non-federal third parties.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL), in coordination with the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP), announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for a project that will increase sub-national, democratic, and people-to-people ties between Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and Taiwan. For the purposes of this solicitation, applicable regions include Central and Eastern Europe, the Baltic states, and the Western Balkans.

PAS Paramaribo invites proposals from NGOs, individuals and government educational institutions for programs that contribute to the improvement of social, economic or environmental conditions in Suriname and which further one or more of the priorities listed below. All programs must include a connection with American cultural element(s), expert(s), organization(s) or institution(s) that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy, culture, and perspectives.Priority Program Areas Strengthening democracy Promoting civic involvement, free and fair elections, or democratic governance at the local or national level in a non-partisan manner.Addressing climate change and environmental education Nurturing efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change and reduce food and water insecurity, particularly among underserved and vulnerable populations.Limiting Corruption - Supporting efforts to counter or prevent corruption in business or government, including efforts to develop greater fiscal transparency, enhance the rule of law, and/or protect intellectual property rights.Supporting a free and expressive media environment Strengthening the professionalism of the media and/or advancing media literacy within the population.Advancing diversity, equality, inclusion, and accessibility for all marginalized communities Addressing issues involving ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical disabilities, and/or indigenous and tribal communities.Promoting academic linkages Creating programs or exchanges designed to increase college and university professional linkages between the U.S. and Suriname, especially with community colleges and technical schools.Empowering women Creating programs focused on the mentorship of women entrepreneurs and/or supporting womens increased participation in civil society.Developing Alumni Supporting programs led by, supported by, or involving the Suriname American Alumni Association, its members, or alumni of U.S. exchange programs.Enhancing agricultural production Supporting efforts that advance understanding of modern agricultural practices and expanding entrepreneurship skills with the goal of increasing exports to U.S. and EU markets.Supporting cultural exchange Hosting cultural performances, artistic workshops, trainings, and exhibitions that highlight the deep and ongoing ties between the United States and Suriname and our shared democratic values.

The Arts and Humanities Grants program, a collaborative effort between the Maine Humanities Council and the Maine Arts Commission, is designed to support organizations in Maine that actively present the state's stories and cultural expressions. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering cultural understanding and engagement within Maine communities. The grants specifically target innovative community projects that integrate both arts and humanities components, reflecting a strategic priority to bridge these disciplines for broader cultural impact. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are organizations with 501c3 status, government organizations (including federally recognized Indian tribal governments, state/local/city governments), churches, and education organizations (such as schools, school districts, or public/private institutions of higher education) operating within Maine. Organizations serving and/or led by communities traditionally under-resourced in the arts and humanities are particularly encouraged to apply, underscoring an impact goal to promote equity and access within the cultural landscape of the state. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate strong and clear arts and humanities content, well-defined project goals and impact, a sound project design, effective outreach and engagement strategies, and a realistic budget. These evaluation criteria highlight the focus on projects that are not only creatively rich but also strategically planned to achieve meaningful community engagement and measurable results. The expected outcome is to support projects that effectively share Maine's diverse cultural narratives and artistic expressions with its people. While specific measurable results beyond the project's impact are not explicitly detailed, the emphasis on "strength and clarity in... project goals and impact" suggests that successful applicants will be able to articulate how their projects will achieve tangible benefits for the community. The grants, providing up to $1,000, are a strategic investment by the Maine Humanities Council and Maine Arts Commission to stimulate local cultural activity and ensure that a wide array of voices and stories from across all counties in Maine are heard and celebrated.

The Idaho Fish & Wildlife Foundation is offering grants to support projects that align with its mission to sustain Idaho’s fishing, hunting, and wildlife heritage. Eligible applicants include the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and tax-exempt organizations. Volunteer groups can apply if they have fiscal sponsorship and an endorsement letter from a tax-exempt organization. The maximum funding request is $10,000, with a preferred but not required one-to-one match of Foundation funds. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2025. The Foundation does not fund projects outside Idaho, multi-year proposals, salaries (except for contract personnel), advocacy or fundraising activities, ongoing operating costs, or pass-through grants. Only one applicant may apply per project; if part of a consortium, the lead applicant must apply. Grant renewed very year; January 1st to April 30st

The Gateway Foundation is offering grant opportunities for non-profit arts organizations based in and operating throughout the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. They also support lighting and parks projects that contribute to the cultural fabric of the area, as well as sculpture loans that make pieces accessible to residents within and between St. Louis Metropolitan neighborhoods. The foundation does not fund endowment funds, capital campaigns, promotional projects, general operations, travel or conferences, fundraising events or advertising, purchase of office equipment, or social service programming. To be eligible for funding, organizations must have tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, be headquartered and provide services within the Greater St. Louis Community, and maintain a focus on arts and culture. The foundation does not make grants to individuals or for-profit businesses, organizations or projects outside of the St. Louis Metropolitan Area, or organizations that discriminate on the basis of certain characteristics. The application process involves completing a web form and submitting required attachments, such as a board of directors or officers list, IRS letter indicating tax-exempt status, audited financial statement, project budget, and other relevant documents. The foundation has three deadlines throughout the year for consideration. For more information and to access the application, visit the following link: [https://www.gateway-foundation.org/application.html](https://www.gateway-foundation.org/application.html)

New Mexico Arts offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to nonprofit organizations and other entities for arts and cultural programs, including performing, visual, literary, media, multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary arts, with a focus on equitable distribution of funds across all categories and communities, to be used during the state fiscal year from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to state historical records advisory boards to improve the preservation and accessibility of historical records across various initiatives.