Speakers
Speakers

Who Can Apply

Any not-for-profit organization in New York State is eligible to apply for a Speakers in the Humanities program. The Council is especially interested in supporting those organizations that reach underserved audiences and regions.

If your organization has applied to host a Speakers in the Humanities program in the past, you DO NOT need to submit proof of non-profit status with application if the Council has your document on file.

First-time host organizations must submit proof of not-for-profit status. The following documents are acceptable proofs:

Not-for-profit organizations: You may send either your organization's Internal Revenue Service Letter of Determination of Non-profit Status*, or a copy of your organization's New York State Charities Registration Filing**. A form used for making tax-exempt purchases is not an acceptable proof of not-for-profit status.

Libraries: You may send a copy of your library's Absolute Charter from the State University of New York.

Municipalities: No proof of not-for-profit status is required.

High schools: No proof of not-for-profit status is required.

If your organization falls outside of the categories listed above, you may still participate in the program by co-sponsoring a Speakers event with an eligible organization.

Additional requirements

Applications must -
  • Be submitted at least eight (8) weeks in advance of the proposed lecture date
  • Be filled out completely
  • Contain both the correct processing fee and required proof-of-not-for-profit status
  • Be free of admission charges and intended for and publicized to the general public
  • Not be for members-only organizations or special events
  • Be from organizations that can commit to gathering an audience of at least 40 people (20 in rural areas)
  • Not be for lectures that are to be used as part of any fundraising activity

* A copy of this letter may be requested through the IRS non-profit hotline at (877) 829-5500.
** A copy of this registration may be requested through the New York State Charities Bureau Exempt Organizations Unit for Charities at (518) 457-2782.