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Best Grants for Creative Writing

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

439

Available grants

$5.6M

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

439 grants
$5.6M total
$5K median

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439 Results based on applied filters

The Audrey Lumsden-Kouvel Fellowship

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $20,000 - US $45,000
The Audrey Lumsden-Kouvel Fellowship, hosted by the Newberry Library, supports scholars in history and literature from the Late Medieval to Early Modern periods. Applicants who utilize the library's extensive collections are prioritized. This fellowship offers researchers four to nine months of immersive study, fostering innovative projects and scholarly advancements. Open to scholars with a PhD or equivalent, it encourages international participation while emphasizing research on colonial Americas and Romance cultures.
History Writing & Literature American History

The Mellon Foundation Long-Term Fellowships

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $20,000 - US $45,000
The Mellon Foundation Long-Term Fellowships, hosted by the Newberry Library, offer scholars the opportunity to engage deeply with its extensive collections. This fellowship supports innovative research across various disciplines, allowing recipients to immerse themselves in the library's rich historical resources for four to nine months. International scholars are welcome, and applications are encouraged from those proposing effective use of the Newberry’s collections. This initiative fosters a vibrant community of learning and discovery.
Humanities & Social Science Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +4 more

The Historical Fiction Writing Fellowship

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $3,000
The Historical Fiction Writing Fellowship at The Newberry Library offers one month of financial support to writers focusing on historical fiction, including novels, short stories, plays, and poetry. With a stipend of $3,000, this fellowship is open to scholars of any nationality, encouraging diverse voices in the genre. The Newberry, a historic Chicago institution, fosters research and creativity, making it an ideal environment for writers to develop their craft and explore historical narratives.
Writing & Literature

The Arthur and Lila Weinberg Fellowship for Independent Researchers

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $3,000
The Arthur and Lila Weinberg Fellowship for Independent Researchers offers a $3,000 monthly stipend for one month, targeting writers, artists, and humanists. This fellowship encourages applicants working outside traditional academic settings, welcoming scholars of all nationalities. The Newberry Library provides a rich collection for research, focusing on projects that promote social justice. Ideal candidates include independent and early-career scholars, particularly those from the Chicago metropolitan area.
Performing Arts Visual Arts Humanities & Social Science +3 more

The Midwest Modern Language Association (MMLA) Fellowship

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $3,000
The Midwest Modern Language Association (MMLA) Fellowship, offered by The Newberry Library, supports scholars engaged in literary and cultural criticism. This fellowship provides a stipend of $3,000/month for a one-month research period, allowing recipients to investigate essential collection items. Open to faculty members, postdoctoral scholars, and ABD PhD candidates from any nationality, it promotes scholarly inquiry while welcoming international scholars under the J-1 visa. This opportunity enriches the academic community and broadens access to diverse research.
Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature

Asian Cultural Council: Graduate Fellowship

Asian Cultural Council Inc
Private
United States
US $15,000
The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.
Art Conservation Archaeology Museums & Cultural Institutions +9 more

Asian Cultural Council: Individual Fellowship

Asian Cultural Council Inc
Private
Afghanistan, Bangladesh +18 more
Unspecified amount
The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.
Archaeology Architecture Museums & Cultural Institutions +10 more

Asian Cultural Council: New York Fellowship

Asian Cultural Council Inc
Private
Afghanistan, Bangladesh +18 more
Unspecified amount
The Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.
Art Conservation Architecture Archaeology +10 more

Joan and Eugene Vanderpool Fellowship at the Athenian Agora

American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA)
Private
Greece
US $5,000
The Joan and Eugene Vanderpool Fellowship at the Athenian Agora offers $5,000 to PhD holders and graduate students researching various aspects of the Athenian Agora. Established by friends of the Vanderpools, the fellowship supports studies in history, archaeology, and art history. Awardees may receive a waiver for membership fees and can allocate funds for travel and project-related expenses. A final report is required, acknowledging the ASCSA's support in all resulting publications.
Architecture Writing & Literature Art History +4 more

AIAR: Short-Term Fellowships- Lydie T. Shufro Summer Research Fellowship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
Unspecified amount
The Lydie T. Shufro Summer Research Fellowship at the Albright Institute of Archaeological Research offers a $3,000 stipend for one month of research in Jerusalem. Open to doctoral and senior scholars of all nationalities, it requires residency at the Institute from June 1 to August 31, 2027. The fellowship supports various fields related to Near Eastern studies and promotes diversity in research while emphasizing the importance of continuous engagement with the region's historical context.
Geography History Community Culture & Heritage +6 more

AIAR: Long-term Fellowships- Seymour Gitin Distinguished Professorship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
US $21,500
The AIAR offers the Seymour Gitin Distinguished Professorship, a prestigious fellowship for senior scholars in Near Eastern studies. This four-month program provides a $20,000 stipend, along with accommodation and half-board in Jerusalem. Ideal candidates are internationally recognized scholars who engage in significant research across various disciplines related to the Near East. The fellowship promotes scholarly diversity and encourages research that connects contemporary perspectives with the pre-modern past.
Geography History Community Culture & Heritage +6 more

AIAR: Long-term Fellowships- Ernest S. Frerichs Annual Professorship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
US $13,500
The AIAR Long-term Fellowships, particularly the Ernest S. Frerichs Annual Professorship, offer post-doctoral scholars the chance to engage deeply with Near Eastern studies. This prestigious fellowship provides a stipend of $13,500 for a four-month residency in Jerusalem, fostering research that bridges various disciplines. Candidates are expected to contribute to the community of fellows, mentor peers, and assist in the Albright's educational programs while gaining invaluable experience in a vibrant academic environment.
Geography History Community Culture & Heritage +6 more

AIAR: Marcia & Oded Borowski/Barton Research Fellowship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
US $12,000
The AIAR: Marcia & Oded Borowski/Barton Research Fellowship offers a $12,000 award for four months to doctoral students and recent Ph.D. recipients from all nationalities. This prestigious fellowship supports research on cultural development in the southern Levant, emphasizing diversity and inclusivity. Applicants must reside at the Albright Institute in Jerusalem, and the fellowship includes a stipend to cover living expenses. The program encourages first-time awardees and fosters an equitable scholarly community.
Geography History Community Culture & Heritage +7 more

AIAR: Long-term Fellowships- Carol & Eric Meyers Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
US $12,000
The AIAR: Long-term Fellowships provide doctoral students with a unique opportunity to conduct research at the W.F. Albright Institute of Archaeological Research in Jerusalem. With a focus on Near Eastern studies, the fellowships support projects in various fields, including archaeology and anthropology. The program emphasizes continuous residency and encourages applications that engage with the pre-modern past. Awards are contingent on funding availability, with a stipend of $12,000 for a four-month residency.
Geography History Community Culture & Heritage +6 more

AIAR: NEH Fellowship

W F Albright Institute Of Archaeological Research
Private
Israel
US $26,000 - US $39,000
The AIAR NEH Fellowship offers up to $70,000 in funding for U.S. scholars in Near Eastern studies to conduct research at the Albright Institute in Jerusalem. Fellowships last between 4 to 6 months and cover stipends for living expenses. The program seeks to engage diverse scholars, providing essential resources for projects that connect contemporary issues with the ancient past. Applications are open to post-doctoral and early career scholars, fostering a commitment to academic diversity and excellence.
Archaeology Geography History +6 more

SEMAC Individual Artist: Grants for Advancing Artists

Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, Inc.
Private
Dodge County, Minnesota, Fillmore County, Minnesota +9 more
US $3,000 - US $6,000
The SEMAC Individual Artist Grants support artists in the SEMAC Region by providing financial assistance to foster original artistic work. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 are available for various disciplines including Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens aged 18 and over, who are full-time residents of the SEMAC Region. The program encourages diverse artists, including those from underrepresented communities, to apply and showcase their work in public events.
Writing & Literature Performing Arts Visual Arts

Travel and Dependent Care Grants

Shakespeare Association Of America
Private
Denver County, Colorado
US $500 - US $1,000
The Travel and Dependent Care Grants, offered by the Shakespeare Association of America (SAA), provide financial support for conference travel and caregiving expenses. Awardees can receive up to $500 to cover travel costs and registration fees, along with additional funds for dependent care. These grants aim to assist contingent faculty, independent scholars, retirees, and graduate students facing financial hardship due to the pandemic or other funding challenges. The program encourages full participation in SAA conferences.
Writing & Literature European History

I Tatti/Dumbarton Oaks Joint Fellowship

Villa I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies
Association/Society
District of Columbia, Italy
Approximately US $61,700
The I Tatti/Dumbarton Oaks Joint Fellowship supports early- to mid-career scholars focusing on cross-cultural interactions between Italy and the East Christian world, including Byzantium and North Africa. This residential fellowship spans the 2025-2026 academic year, with fellows spending the fall at I Tatti in Florence and the spring at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, DC. Successful candidates must have a PhD, demonstrate proficiency in English and Italian, and engage in research that contributes to the understanding of Italian Renaissance and Byzantine Studies.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Art & Culture Architecture +7 more

NACBS Undergraduate Essay Prize

The North American Conference On British Studies Inc
Private
Canada, United States
US $100
The NACBS Undergraduate Essay Prize, awarded by The North American Conference on British Studies, recognizes outstanding essays on British topics from undergraduates at U.S. and Canadian universities. Each year, up to eight prizes of $100 are given, encouraging submissions from diverse fields including History, English, and Cultural Studies. This initiative aims to promote scholarly engagement with British Studies, fostering a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural contexts during the 2023-24 academic year.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies Writing & Literature European Art +1 more

Fellowship in the Digital Humanities

Villa I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies
Association/Society
Italy
US $22,300 - US $32,700
The Fellowship in the Digital Humanities supports scholars, librarians, and data professionals whose work intersects with technology and the humanities. Focused on the Italian Renaissance, projects can utilize digital tools for research in various fields, including history and literature. This residential fellowship lasts 4-6 months, providing financial support and resources at Villa I Tatti in Florence. Applicants must meet specific academic and technical criteria, ensuring a rich scholarly experience in a collaborative environment.
Humanities & Social Science Historical Records & Archives Computer Science & Engineering +14 more

M.A. Essay Prize

The North American Conference On British Studies Inc
Private
Canada, United States
US $500
The M.A. Essay Prize, awarded by the North American Conference on British Studies (NACBS), recognizes exceptional original research by students in stand-alone M.A. programs in the U.S. and Canada. With a prize of $500, it encourages scholarly excellence and invites winners to submit their work for publication. Faculty nominations are required, ensuring deserving candidates receive recognition for their academic contributions, thereby fostering a vibrant academic community within British studies.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies Writing & Literature European Art +1 more

Judith R. Walkowitz Article Prize

The North American Conference On British Studies Inc
Private
Canada, United States
US $1,000
The Judith R. Walkowitz Article Prize, awarded annually by the North American Conference on British Studies, recognizes the best published article addressing gender and sexuality in British culture. This prize honors Professor Walkowitz’s significant contributions to the fields of gender and cultural studies. Open to scholars in North America, it encourages diverse perspectives across disciplines and time periods, with a cash award of $250 to support ongoing research and scholarship in British Studies.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies Writing & Literature European Art +1 more

John Ben Snow Prize

The North American Conference On British Studies Inc
Private
Canada, United States
US $500
The John Ben Snow Prize, awarded by the North American Conference on British Studies, recognizes the best book by a North American scholar focusing on British Studies from the Middle Ages to the eighteenth century. This prestigious annual award includes a $500 prize and encourages authors who are U.S. or Canadian citizens or permanent residents to submit their works. Nominations can be made by authors or publishers, with discretion advised for multiple entries.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies European Art European History +1 more

Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship

Villa I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies
Association/Society
Italy
Up to US $32,700
The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship provides a six-month residential opportunity for post-doctoral scholars focused on cultural exchanges between Africa and the Mediterranean from 1250-1750. With a monthly stipend of USD 5,200 and relocation support, the fellowship requires residency in Florence and emphasizes original research in African history. Applicants must hold a PhD and be fluent in English, Italian, or French, ensuring a solid foundation in early modern global exchanges.
Art History Archaeology Music +6 more

Berenson Fellowship

Villa I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies
Association/Society
Italy
US $20,800 - US $31,200
The Berenson Fellowship, supported by The Lila Wallace – Reader’s Digest Fund, invites scholars to explore 'Italy in the World' through transnational dialogues during the Renaissance (14th-17th century). This residential fellowship spans 4 to 6 months, offering USD 5,200 monthly and potential housing support. Applicants must hold a PhD and reside in Florence for at least three days a week. Priority is given to early and mid-career scholars, especially those with limited access to research resources in Italy.
European History Historical Records & Archives Art & Culture +6 more

Bogliasco Fellowships

The Bogliasco Foundation Inc
Private
Italy
Unspecified amount
The Bogliasco Fellowships, awarded by the Bogliasco Foundation, provide a unique opportunity for individuals in the arts and humanities to develop significant new work in a serene Italian setting. Open to all ages and nationalities, these one-month Fellowships foster creativity and collaboration among exceptional artists and scholars. Candidates must demonstrate notable achievements in their fields and can apply multiple times, with previous recipients waiting five years before reapplying. A conversational level of English is required to thrive in this international community.
Architecture Archaeology Dance +8 more

Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship: Postdoctoral Associates

Yale University
Private
New Haven County, Connecticut
US $68,500 - US $79,500
The Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship at Yale University offers postdoctoral associates a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research and artistic projects. Selected fellows will contribute to the vibrant community of the ISM, collaborating with faculty and students across various disciplines. The fellowship includes financial support ranging from $65,000 to $76,000, with a focus on teaching and scholarly engagement. This program encourages diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
Music Humanities & Social Science Sociology +9 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%.

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Local Grants by City

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