Grants
Grants

Project Grants: Guidelines

What Are the Humanities?

What does it mean to be human? The question has given rise to the fields known collectively as "the humanities," which look at what humans have created, debated, done and believed throughout the millennia. The skills and subject matters of the humanities--reading, analysis, discussion, critical thinking about: ideas, art, past events, and texts--help us be engaged members of our communities. 

What We Fund

The Council funds projects that use the humanities to engage people in analyzing issues, and taking part in the meaningful exchange of ideas and opinions.

The goals of our public humanities grants are:

  • To encourage informed public discourse in communities across New York State.
  • To help New Yorkers deepen their understanding of the world around them.
  • To actively engage New Yorkers with issues and ideas.

All projects supported by the Council must be intended for and open to a general public audience, with priority given to projects serving people for whom such opportunities are not usually available.

All projects should also involve a strong project team, including members with humanities expertise.

Who is Eligible for Funding

Funding is available to any tax-exempt organization located in New York State. Individuals are not eligible to receive Council grants.

The Council does not fund scholarly research projects or conferences, books or catalogues, the production of film or video documentaries, capital projects, political action or advocacy programs.

Grants We Offer

Project Grants from $300-$3,000 are offered on a rolling basis for project planning or implementation. Apply at least 12 weeks before your project starts and you’ll receive the Council's decision within 12 weeks. Please note, all project event dates must take place after the notification deadline.

Organizations may receive one Planning Grant, one Project Grant, and in 2012, one War of 1812 Project Grant per calendar year.
NOTE: Grantees must complete all final reporting for their Mini Planning Grants before they are eligible to apply for a Mini Grant to implement the same project.

In Spring 2012, the Council will make an announcement about our evolving grants, including larger grants (for up to $10,000). Information about grant eligibility, timing, award amounts, and funding priorities will be made at that time. Click here to read a statement from our Executive Director >

Contact the Council: We want to hear from you!