Best Social Science Research Grants in Massachusetts

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Massachusetts nonprofits and NGOs providing health care, humanitarian aid, or social services to marginalized communities can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation for programs in health, education, or disaster relief. Organizations conducting social science research connected to these areas, such as evaluating health access or humanitarian interventions, may also be competitive applicants.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Massachusetts social science researchers in medieval European history can access funding through the Medieval Academy of America to support travel and access to original sources, archives, manuscripts, artworks, or monuments. Ph.D. candidates and non-tenure-track scholars who are Academy members may receive US $5,000 awards, announced at the Medieval Academy annual meeting.

Massachusetts medieval studies researchers with original, primary-source-based projects that illuminate present-day issues can access funding through the Medieval Academy of America. This annual Monica H. Green Prize awards US $1,000 for exceptional medieval research, including interdisciplinary work that connects historical disciplines with fields such as science, medicine, or public policy.

Nonprofits, researchers, educators, and farming community partners in Massachusetts and the broader Northeast can seek funding for social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems. Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education supports community-based, farmer-informed projects on topics like marketing, production, sustainability, climate, and bioenergy, with awards ranging from US $50,000 - US $250,000.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Massachusetts nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities working in education, environment, entrepreneurship, or community enrichment may be eligible for broad community program support. Focused on strengthening communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities, Georgia-Pacific Foundation invites organizations within 30 miles of a GP manufacturing community to apply; social science and policy research components can be included when aligned with these priorities.

Massachusetts medieval studies scholars with PhDs and no institutional travel funding can receive up to US $750 to present their research at major conferences. Eligible Medieval Academy of America members, including some unaffiliated or contingent scholars, may apply for travel within North America or overseas when they have evidence their paper will be presented.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Individuals who develop or administer medieval studies programs in Massachusetts and beyond can receive US $1,000 for outstanding service to the field. Focused on medieval history and related disciplines, the Medieval Academy of America invites nominations for the Kindrick-CARA Award, typically from members in good standing, recognizing vital but often overlooked academic program leadership.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Scholars presenting on diversity and inclusivity in medieval studies at the Medieval Academy of America Annual Meeting can apply for a US $500 travel grant, once their proposal is accepted. Members in good standing, especially student, junior, adjunct, and unaffiliated researchers in Massachusetts social science and history fields, may benefit.

Nonprofit organizations conducting social science or related community research in Massachusetts can seek funding for program development, evaluation, equipment, and other project needs. Grants from The Beveridge Family Foundation help Hampden and Hampshire County groups advance education, health, human services, and youth development, with awards up to US $50,000 available across two annual funding cycles.

Graduate students planning community-building or professionalization projects in medieval studies, including those based in Massachusetts, can apply for grants of US $2,000 to support research-related activities. Grants from the Medieval Academy of America help social science and humanities researchers fund conferences, workshops, digital projects, performances, or collaborative initiatives that strengthen graduate medievalist communities.

Advanced graduate students conducting medieval studies research in Massachusetts can receive dissertation funding to cover travel and research material expenses. With a mission to promote excellence in medieval studies, Medieval Academy of America provides $2,000 grants to Ph.D. candidates whose dissertation topics center on the Middle Ages and have committee-approved projects.

Unaffiliated scholars, adjuncts, postdoctoral lecturers, and other pre-tenure faculty conducting medieval studies research can apply for the Olivia Remie Constable Awards, offering US $1,500 for research and travel. Focused on medieval European history and related fields, Medieval Academy of America funding may benefit Massachusetts-based social science researchers working on medieval topics.

Graduate students researching late-medieval Britain in any discipline can receive US $5,000 awards to cover research expenses such as travel and archival materials. Medieval Academy of America provides support to U.S. and Canadian citizens or permanent residents, which may benefit Massachusetts-based scholars working in social science and related fields.

Focused on late medieval British and European history, this fellowship supports graduate students conducting Ph.D. dissertation research, including those based in Massachusetts. The Medieval Academy of America offers the Schallek Fellowship, providing US $40,000 for one year to U.S. or Canadian citizens or permanent residents whose dissertation proposals have been approved.

Graduate and exceptional undergraduate students pursuing summer courses in medieval languages or manuscript studies can apply for Medieval Academy of America's CARA Summer Scholarships, including those based in Massachusetts. Awards up to US $1,000 help offset tuition at approved programs, with four to eight scholarships given annually depending on applicants and program costs.

Individuals engaged in science outreach or patient advocacy that may intersect with social science research in Massachusetts can receive recognition and support through this US $500 award. Grants from Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society help advocates share scientific knowledge with the public, highlight patient perspectives, and participate in the society’s annual meeting and related visibility opportunities.

University and other nonprofit scholarly presses in Massachusetts can apply for the Medieval Academy of America’s MAA Book Subvention Grant, awarding up to US $2,500 to support first books in medieval studies by eligible Academy members. This can help social science researchers in medieval history, law, or related fields cover publication costs.

University and nonprofit scholarly presses publishing first books in medieval studies by eligible Medieval Academy members can access funding to support production costs. Grants from the Medieval Academy of America help Massachusetts and other presses with up to US $2,500 per title when a high-quality, Middle Ages-focused work has already been accepted for publication and financial need is demonstrated.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts working with underserved youth, families, or communities can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, offering US $30,000 - US $350,000 for community-impact programs. Funding supports youth education and leadership, housing and family services, food access and hunger, and environmental stewardship projects that benefit local communities.