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Best Grants for Creative Writing

Explore creative writing grants supporting authors, workshops, literary journals, and storytelling programs.

436

Available grants

$5.6M

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

436 grants
$5.6M total
$5K median

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436 Results based on applied filters

ASCA: Workshop Grants

Alaska State Council on the Arts
State/Local Government
Alaska
US $500 - US $1,500
The ASCA Workshop Grants provide funding for unique arts-related activities in Alaska, enabling community participation in disciplines like visual arts, music, and theater. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, and local government agencies. Workshops must be open to the public and held by June 30 following the award. Grants cover instructor fees and travel expenses, with a match requirement of 50% of total costs. This opportunity aims to foster cultural heritage and support Alaskan artists.
Visual Arts Performing Arts Folk Art / Traditional Art +2 more

Operating Support Grant (Annual and Biennial)

Alaska State Council on the Arts
State/Local Government
Alaska
Up to US $21,000
The Operating Support Grant from the Alaska State Council on the Arts offers funding for nonprofit arts organizations in Alaska. This grant supports ongoing artistic and administrative functions, including salaries, travel, and production costs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities with a minimum annual budget of $50,000 and demonstrate a commitment to arts programming. Grant applications are limited to one per fiscal year, promoting sustainability and cultural heritage within the Alaska arts community.
Dance Visual Arts Writing & Literature +4 more

Hawkins Charitable Foundation Grant

Allen W. and Gladys Hawkins Charitable Foundation
Private
Miami County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Hawkins Charitable Foundation Grant, established in honor of Allen W. and Gladys Hawkins, aims to support community betterment projects in Osawatomie, Kansas. The foundation prioritizes grants for organizations classified as 501(c)(3) public charities that operate for charitable purposes. Applications are reviewed by local trustees to ensure resources are directed to areas of critical need. The foundation does not fund requests outside Osawatomie or those aimed at influencing legislation or benefiting individuals.
Community Services Science Writing & Literature +1 more

Coshocton Foundation Unrestricted Grant

Coshocton Foundation
Private
Coshocton County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Coshocton Foundation, established in 1967, supports the community through its unrestricted grants, fostering local engagement and philanthropy. The foundation's challenge fund, created by the Montgomerys in 1989, has significantly increased contributions, allowing for a wider donor base. Governed by a dedicated board and distribution committee, it emphasizes local perspectives in addressing community needs and opportunities. With a commitment to maximizing its assets, the foundation strives to make a meaningful impact in Coshocton County.
Recreation Parks & Public Spaces Community Development & Revitalization +5 more

Walker Charitable Foundation Grant

Willard And Pat Walker Charitable Foundation Inc
Private
Arkansas, Kansas +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Walker Charitable Foundation provides funding for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational endeavors. Organizations must contact the Foundation at least 30 days prior to grant submission to discuss eligibility. The Foundation aims to support as many worthy organizations as possible, guided by its Executive Director and Board, primarily consisting of Walker family members. Over the years, it has proudly funded numerous organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.
Education Religion & Spirituality Science +2 more

CFTHC Community Impact Fund Grant

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country
Private
Bandera County, Texas, Blanco County, Texas +8 more
Unspecified amount
The CFTHC Community Impact Fund Grant supports organizations in Bandera and surrounding counties, focusing on Arts & Culture, Basic Needs, Environment, and Youth Development. Grants up to $15,000 can be used for general operating or program support. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a minimum of 12 months operating history. The fund prioritizes organizations that promote community welfare and address critical needs such as hunger, education, and environmental stewardship.
Senior Services Food Access & Hunger Poverty Alleviation & Services +27 more

Irene D. Cunningham Trust Grant

Irene D. Cunningham Trust
Private
Chester County, Pennsylvania, Delaware County, Pennsylvania
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The Irene D. Cunningham Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Delaware and Chester Counties, Pennsylvania, dedicated to assisting the needy poor. Established through the Last Will of Ms. Cunningham, the Trust aims to provide grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 annually. Preference is given to organizations that supply essential resources to the poor. This perpetual Trust ensures that Ms. Cunningham's generosity continues to benefit the community for years to come.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services Religion & Spirituality +2 more

Standard Semi-Annual Robert C. Hoffman Grants Program

Adams County Community Foundation
Private
Adams County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Robert C. Hoffman Charitable Endowment Trust offers semi-annual grants to nonprofit organizations benefiting residents of Adams County, PA. The trust aims to promote social welfare by supporting various causes, including education, animal welfare, and assistance for the needy. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status. Grants are not provided for organizations outside of Adams County unless a clear benefit to local residents can be demonstrated. This initiative strengthens community support and addresses local needs.
Religion & Spirituality Animal Welfare - General Recreation +13 more

GG ICF: Greater Impact Grant Program Fields-of-Interest-Grants

Greater Grand Island Community Foundation
Private
Hall County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation offers grants up to $10,000 to address unmet charitable needs in Hall County. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities and governmental agencies. The foundation focuses on a variety of sectors, including arts, education, health, and community enrichment. Priority is given to programs that reach underserved populations and demonstrate community engagement. Applicants must contact the foundation before proposal submission and may only apply once every 12 months.
Art & Culture Youth Services Education +14 more

Dwight Stuart Youth Fund Grant

Elbridge Stuart Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Unspecified amount
The Dwight Stuart Youth Fund Grant supports organizations providing essential services to underserved youth in Los Angeles County. Established in 2001, it aims to empower children through educational enrichment, arts, and leadership programs. The fund emphasizes capacity building, allowing organizations to enhance their impact. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and focus on direct services for marginalized communities. The grant excludes funding for individuals, political activities, and projects outside the specified geographic area.
Performing Arts Youth Development & Leadership After School / Summer Educational Programs +13 more

ArtsEverywhere Grants

Community Foundation of St. Joseph County
Private
St. Joseph County, Indiana
Up to US $10,000
The ArtsEverywhere Grants, funded by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, aim to enrich local arts and culture through substantial support for innovative projects. With a focus on capacity building, the initiative encourages organizations to enhance their effectiveness and community engagement. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for various programs, fostering collaboration and sustainability. By investing in local talent and artistic quality, the program seeks to inspire community pride and ensure lasting contributions to the cultural landscape.
Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation Visual Arts +5 more

Betty Kinsman Fund

Kinsman Foundation
Private
Clark County, Washington, Cowlitz County, Washington +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Betty Kinsman Fund supports arts in Oregon and southern Washington, focusing on theatre, literary arts, and photography. Grants prioritize smaller organizations and aim to celebrate individual artists and innovative presentations. The fund does not support physical improvements, arts education, or activities aimed at specialty audiences. While all proposals are considered, preference is given to project support over general operating expenses. This initiative honors Betty Kinsman's passion for the arts while ensuring a public benefit.
Writing & Literature Theater Photography

Connecticut Sea Grant Arts Support Awards Program

Connecticut Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Connecticut
Up to US $1,000
The Connecticut Sea Grant Arts Support Awards Program offers up to $1000 to artists or groups whose work reflects the beauty and relevance of coastal and marine environments. Eligible participants include Connecticut residents or artists whose work connects to these themes, across all artistic disciplines. Funds can cover production costs, excluding self-compensation. Previous awardees must wait five years before reapplying, ensuring fresh talent and innovative projects continue to emerge.
Art & Culture Writing & Literature

Community grantmaking- Carteret Community Foundation Grant

North Carolina Community Foundation Inc
Private
Carteret County, North Carolina
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Carteret Community Foundation Grant supports local nonprofit organizations in Carteret County by providing funding for various purposes, including education, wildlife conservation, and humanitarian needs. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, while the foundation prioritizes program-specific applications. This competitive grant program aims to enhance community life and respond to evolving local needs, making a significant impact in the region.
Education - K through 12 Environmental Conservation Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +8 more

Betty Ann McCullough - Teaching Achievement Grants Program

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Gibson County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Betty Ann McCullough Teaching Achievement Grant honors exceptional public school educators in Gibson County, recognizing their dedication to enhancing students' skills in mathematics and language arts. Nominations are open to educators and parents, with awards aimed at furthering teaching knowledge and student development. Established in 1998 by friends and family after McCullough's passing, the fund promotes educational excellence, reflecting her 40 years of commitment to teaching and community support.
Teacher Development & Training Mathematics Writing & Literature

Betty Ann McCullough Education Seminar and Convocation Grant

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Gibson County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Betty Ann McCullough Education Seminar and Convocation Grant provides funding for public and private schools in Gibson County to host educational seminars and convocations. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of educators in science, mathematics, and language arts. Supported by the Gibson County Community Foundation, the program seeks to improve educational quality and promote professional development among teachers and educational staff in the community.
STEM / STEAM Education Teacher Development & Training Writing & Literature

Davis Family Foundation Grants

Davis Family Foundation
Private
Connecticut, Maine +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Davis Family Foundation, established in Maine, focuses on granting support to educational, medical, and cultural/arts organizations. With over $63.5 million awarded since 1986, the foundation emphasizes innovative projects that make a significant impact on Maine communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and align with the foundation's priorities, ensuring projects enhance educational outcomes or address medical issues effectively. The foundation seeks unique projects that engage the community and preserve Maine's cultural heritage.
History Writing & Literature Health & Medicine +9 more

Ella T. Grasso Literary Scholarship

UNICO Foundation Inc
Association/Society
California, Connecticut +12 more
US $1,000
The Ella T. Grasso Literary Scholarship, provided by the UNICO Foundation, offers two $1,000 awards to college students of Italian descent. Candidates must submit an original essay or short story celebrating their heritage while being enrolled in a full-time, accredited U.S. college for the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative highlights UNICO's commitment to supporting educational endeavors and preserving Italian culture within America.
Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant - Program Grants

Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation Grant supports programs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals and families in Hawaii, with a focus on Kauai Island. This private foundation prioritizes tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations that demonstrate broad community impact. Eligible projects span various fields, including arts, education, health, and human services. The foundation emphasizes significant board participation and accepts fiscal sponsors, ensuring a strong commitment to the community's needs.
Education Writing & Literature Science +6 more

Max Kade Foundation Grant

Max Kade Foundation
Private
Austria, Germany +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Max Kade Foundation Grant supports educational institutions and charitable organizations recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS. It emphasizes Germanic studies and transatlantic exchanges through various programs, including postdoctoral research, faculty exchanges, and language teacher training. The foundation aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration between the U.S. and German-speaking countries, offering funding opportunities for innovative educational initiatives.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Language Education Writing & Literature

Sam L. Cohen Foundation Grant

Sam L. Cohen Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine, York County, Maine
Up to US $50,000
The Sam L. Cohen Foundation provides grants to support arts, culture, education, civic engagement, health services, and Jewish cultural initiatives in Maine. The foundation prioritizes organizations that serve underserved populations and promote community engagement. They fund projects up to $50,000, with an average grant size under $15,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations serving Cumberland and York Counties. The foundation seeks to foster creativity, improve quality of life, and enhance educational opportunities.
Human & Social Services Civic Affairs Public Policy +17 more

Ann E. Talcott Fund Grant

Ann E. Talcott Fund
Private
New Jersey
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Ann E. Talcott Fund Grant supports charitable organizations in New Jersey, focusing on religious, scientific, educational, and humanitarian efforts. Established as a perpetual trust by Ann Earle Talcott, the fund prioritizes assistance to the indigent and aims to enhance public safety and welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt entities, ensuring financial support for those dedicated to meaningful community service and improving the lives of vulnerable populations.
Education Environment Animal Welfare - General +8 more

K.D. and M.L. Steadley Memorial Trust Grants

K.D. and M.L. Steadley Memorial Trust
Private
Jasper County, Missouri, Newton County, Missouri
Unspecified amount
The K.D. and M.L. Steadley Memorial Trust Grants support charitable organizations in Carthage, Missouri, focusing on scientific, educational, literary, and artistic pursuits. Established in 1959, the Trust considers proposals for capital support of public parks and outdoor recreation programs. Eligible applicants must promote the well-being of the community, while general operating support is limited. The majority of grants are awarded for one year, emphasizing project and program funding.
Community Services Writing & Literature Science +5 more

Carrie J. Loose Trust Grant

Carrie J. Loose Trust
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Carrie J. Loose Trust Grant supports charitable initiatives in Kansas City, Missouri, focusing on areas like community improvement, education, health, human services, and research. Established under the will of Harry Wilson Loose in 1927, it prioritizes operational and program support while excluding capital support and requests from individuals, endowments, and certain public service projects. This grant aims to enhance quality of life through diverse funding opportunities.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine Community Development & Revitalization +6 more

DeLeon Carter Foundation Grants

DeLeon Carter Foundation
Private
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The DeLeon Carter Foundation Grants support a wide range of charitable purposes, including religious, scientific, educational, and literary initiatives, as well as the prevention of cruelty to children and animals. This private foundation is committed to addressing the needs of the Rocky Mount and Nashville communities while maintaining flexibility in its decision-making processes. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Art & Culture Education Community Services +6 more

Jerry Metcalf Foundation Grant

Jerry Metcalf Foundation
Private
Montana
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Jerry Metcalf Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports individuals and organizations in Montana with annual awards ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. The foundation funds projects that enhance the natural environment and diverse communities, focusing on the arts, historical preservation, environmental conservation, and community health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, which must provide IRS verification. This grant is a vital resource for fostering cultural and environmental initiatives in Montana.
Education Environmental Conservation Health & Medicine +7 more

Luce/ACLS Dissertation Fellowships in American Art

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $49,500
The Luce/ACLS Dissertation Fellowships in American Art support graduate students conducting research on the history of art and visual culture in the U.S., including Native American art. These fellowships aim to enhance diversity in academia by welcoming applications from PhD candidates at all degree-granting institutions in the U.S. The program offers a stipend of $38,000 plus a travel and research allowance, with a total award of $42,000 for a nine to twelve-month period between July 2025 and May 2027.
Art History Native American Culture & Heritage Black American Culture & Heritage +4 more

Grants for Creative Writing Highlights

Grants for creative writing fund programs and projects that support writers, workshops, and literary initiatives. The following grants help nonprofits promote storytelling, foster creativity, and expand access to the arts.


Search Instrumentl's Creative Writing Grants Database


Explore 93 funding opportunities for creative writing, with $2.6M available. Instrumentl supports writers and nonprofits with advanced grant discovery, deadline tracking tools, and key insights to enrich literary arts and storytelling programs.

Grant Insights : Grants for Creative Writing

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

93 Grants for Creative Writing grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

18 Grants for Creative Writing over $25K in average grant size

9 Grants for Creative Writing over $50K in average grant size

25 Grants for Creative Writing supporting general operating expenses

77 Grants for Creative Writing supporting programs / projects

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Creative Writing?

Most grants are due in the third quarter.

Q1
23.9%
Q2
23.7%
Q3
28.3%
Q4
24.0%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Creative Writing?

Grants are most commonly $9,500.

$250 $250 Min.
$9,500 $9.5 K Median
$35,556 $35.6 K Average
$950,000 $950 K Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits that support writing, literacy, or storytelling initiatives may qualify for these grants. Eligible organizations typically include literary nonprofits, universities, and arts programs.

Grants for creative writing typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q3, with 28.3% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q2.

Grants for creative writing support emerging writers, diverse voices, and educational writing programs. Funders provide these grants to foster creative expression and ensure that writers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—have the necessary resources to share their stories.

Funding for creating writing grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $950,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $9,500, while the average grant awarded is $35,556. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Government organizations at the federal, state, and local levels often provide funding for creative writing grants. Prominent funders include arts organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, along with various state-specific organizations.

Additionally, many private foundations, such as the Elsie H. Wilcox Foundation and the FDC Foundation, also offer support for creative writing initiatives.

To improve grant success for creative writing, here are some things you can do to stand out:

  • Align with funder priorities – Tailor proposals to align with the funder’s mission and key focus areas.
  • Use measurable outcomes – Provide data-driven results to demonstrate past impact and expected future success.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Collaborate with healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations to strengthen applications.
  • Develop a compelling narrative – Use real stories and case studies to highlight the significance of the program.

For additional guidance, explore our step-by-step guide to crafting compelling grant proposals.

Instrumentl assists creative writing organizations in streamlining the grant application process by identifying relevant funders. Just provide Instrumentl with a bit of information about your organization and funding requirements, and you will receive a list of suitable grants within seconds. Discover how Lutheran Braille Workers increased their grant submissions by 150%.