Best Social Science & Humanities Grants

The Collins Foundation, established by William and Ruth Collins, supports charitable, educational, and religious causes in Boulder County, Colorado. With an average grant size between $2,000 and $7,500, the foundation awards 10 to 15 grants annually, totaling around $80,000 in yearly giving. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of November 30 for review at the January grant meeting. Eligible organizations must be public charities under IRC section 501(c)(3) serving Boulder County residents.

The Moody Foundation Grant supports charitable projects in Texas, focusing on innovative ideas that foster long-term community improvements. Eligible recipients include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, governmental entities, and certain supporting organizations. The Foundation prioritizes grants for education, health, arts, and social services, particularly in underserved areas like Galveston, Austin, and Dallas. Applicants should anticipate a twelve-month process from inquiry to funding decision, as the Foundation carefully reviews each proposal.

The Marion I. and Henry J. Knott Foundation offers grants to support various program areas, including Arts & Humanities, Catholic Activities, Education, Health Care, and Human Services. With a commitment to enhancing community well-being, the foundation provides funding opportunities primarily for organizations serving the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Typical grant amounts are under $100,000, with discretionary grants available on a rolling basis. The foundation is dedicated to fostering education and supporting those in need, reflecting the legacy of its founders.

The Imlay Foundation, established in 1990 by John P. Imlay Jr., focuses on supporting charitable organizations in Atlanta and Scotland. With a commitment to enhancing community wellbeing, the foundation offers grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and have at least two years of operations in Atlanta. The foundation prioritizes domestic projects, while applications from individuals and for-profit entities are not accepted.

Nikon USA is dedicated to supporting innovative initiatives that align with its marketing strategies and community impact. They seek sponsorship proposals that demonstrate unique ideas, enhancing brand engagement and consumer reach. However, applicants must be over 18 and submit requests at least six months prior to their program. Nikon prioritizes USA-based entities and cannot support individual projects or certain causes. For more details, please submit your request through their designated online form.

The Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation provides grants to support charitable organizations dedicated to promoting and preserving the Arts and Humanities, particularly in Central Indiana. Grants can range from $1,000 to $1,000,000 for specific projects such as renovations or unique program offerings. Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities under IRC Section 501(c)(3), while individual applications and endowments are not accepted. This foundation continues the legacy of Mr. Clowes by supporting similar initiatives.

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities offers the Louisiana Culture Care Fund Grants to support humanities-based organizations in Louisiana. Grant amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 are available based on organizational budgets. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public-facing institutions, and government agencies. These grants cover essential operating costs, promoting the humanities' role in preserving cultural heritage and enhancing community engagement across the state.

The Shelby Foundation Grant aims to enhance community quality of life by providing financial assistance to 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies. By supporting local schools and programs, the foundation seeks to foster a safe, prosperous environment for residents. The initiative focuses on one-time grants for specific purposes, excluding funding for annual operating expenses or projects tied to regular school curriculums, thus ensuring impactful community development.

Virginia Humanities offers grants to support projects that delve into Virginia's rich history, culture, and communities. These grants aim to foster public engagement through initiatives like community discussions, history projects, and educational resources. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and recognized educational institutions. Preference is given to organizations within Virginia, although external applicants focusing on Virginia-related subjects are also welcome. The program emphasizes inclusivity and the importance of connecting with a broad audience.

The L.P. “Pat” Mullen Fund, established by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, supports youth education in Saline County, KS, focusing on arts, humanities, technology, and science. It provides funding for hands-on learning opportunities and the enhancement of existing programs for youth aged 0-18. Grants are available to various entities, including nonprofits and educational institutions, while ensuring that applicants adhere to specific eligibility criteria.

WCCF: Competitive Community Grants, established in 1978, offers funding for projects that benefit the Wayne County area. The Foundation supports charitable organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) nonprofits or qualified governmental agencies. Grants are awarded for arts, education, health, and community projects, with an emphasis on innovative, sustainable solutions. The Foundation seeks well-planned proposals that demonstrate effective use of funds and community impact, while avoiding support for general operating expenses or religious purposes.

The NHC Mini Grants, offered by the Nebraska Humanities Council, aim to support nonprofit projects that foster cultural connections and enhance the understanding of humanities across Nebraska. Grant applications are encouraged from a diverse range of organizations, focusing on projects that serve Nebraskans and address underserved audiences. Emphasizing collaboration and innovative partnerships, these grants prioritize initiatives that explore interdisciplinary connections within the humanities, enriching the cultural landscape of the state.

Humanities Nebraska (HN) provides grants aimed at enhancing public humanities projects across the state, with a mission to foster cultural connection and understanding. These grants support nonprofit organizations and government entities in promoting history, literature, philosophy, and the arts, ensuring inclusivity and representation for diverse communities. Applications focusing on the theme of connections are prioritized, while maintaining a competitive selection process. HN is dedicated to creating engaging, meaningful experiences that resonate with all Nebraskans.

The Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund, established by the Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation in 2011, supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Ottumwa and Wapello County. This grant prioritizes 501(c)(3) organizations offering unique programs that address basic human needs, promote inclusivity, and foster community connections. Applications are welcomed for single-year funding, with larger requests encouraged to include a funding match, ensuring sustained impact and collaboration.

General Operating Support II

General Operating Support II Grants (GOS II) are available to non-profit arts and/or humanities organizations located in Montgomery County, MD that have had both cash operating expenses and revenue of at least $150,000 for the last three completed fiscal years. FY27-28 grants will be awarded for activities occurring from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028.

New! AHCMC has eliminated the match requirement.

By awarding GOS II Grants, the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County (AHCMC) seeks to:

• Encourage organizations to maintain an active, two-way, ongoing relationship between the organization and the community in the planning, participation, and evaluation of public activity/activities, which include intentional strategies for diversity, equity, access, and inclusion;
• Promote stability in arts and humanities organizations by providing a base of funding to support operating budgets;
• Help ensure diverse arts and humanities experiences for constituents of Montgomery County;
• Stimulate local support and involvement in the arts and humanities, including volunteer participation, audience development, and financial contributions;
• Strengthen the scholarly and artistic capabilities of arts and humanities organizations;
• Improve and/or stabilize the management infrastructure and effectiveness of arts and humanities organizations.

The AHCMC: Programming & Capacity Building Project Grants support arts and humanities organizations in Montgomery County, MD. Grants range from $1,000 to $15,000 for projects that foster community engagement and enhance organizational capacity. Eligible applicants include non-profit and non-incorporated groups focused on diverse arts disciplines. The program emphasizes community relationships and aims to promote stability and growth in the arts sector. Grant activities must occur between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.

The Advancement Grants, offered by the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, aim to support non-profit arts and humanities organizations in Montgomery County, MD, with annual expenses exceeding $50,000. These grants assist in maintaining financial stability, strategic long-term planning, and promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and access within the arts and humanities sector.

The Wheaton Cultural Project Grants, offered by the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, support impactful arts and humanities projects in Wheaton, MD. These grants aim to enhance cultural diversity, support underserved communities, and provide professional opportunities for local artists and scholars. Eligible applicants include organizations and individuals residing in Montgomery County, with funding available for a range of artistic disciplines. Projects must engage the public and adhere to current health guidelines.

The DCF Capital Project Grants aim to enhance nonprofit facilities through capital improvements, helping organizations in Delaware operate more effectively. These grants support projects that not only renovate but also empower nonprofits to better serve their communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations within Delaware or those benefiting Delawareans. The initiative excludes funding for individuals, certain nonprofits, and specific operational expenses, ensuring support focuses on impactful community enhancements.

The Public Humanities Program Grants, previously known as Community Project Grants, support initiatives that preserve and share Florida's rich history and culture. They encourage projects that bring communities together to explore their heritage and current civic life. Eligible applicants include Florida-based nonprofits and governments, and projects must involve humanities scholarship. In 2025, proposals marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence will be prioritized, fostering collaboration among diverse community partners.

The Acadia Science Fellowship aims to protect Acadia's environmental and cultural heritage through innovative research and public engagement. This fellowship supports early-career scientists and encourages projects relevant to resource management and long-term stewardship of Acadia National Park. With funding of up to $30,000 for one to three years, the initiative seeks to strengthen public understanding of science's importance for parks and society, fostering curiosity and concern for national parks.

The Arts and Humanities Education Project Grant Program (AHEP) supports non-profit organizations in the District of Columbia to enhance student engagement in arts and humanities. AHEP aims to provide high-quality experiences that bolster academic achievement and strengthen the role of arts education. This competitive grant is open to projects of various sizes, focusing on in-school, out-of-school, professional development, and older adult initiatives, fostering a rich cultural landscape.

The Arts and Humanities Fellowship Program (AHFP) Grant, offered by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, supports individual artists and humanities practitioners in the District of Columbia. This initiative aims to elevate the contributions of various disciplines, including dance, media arts, and visual arts, fostering a vibrant cultural community. Eligible applicants include artists of all career stages, encouraging a diverse range of creative expressions and interdisciplinary practices.

The Methodology, Measurement, and Statistics (MMS) Program by the National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes innovative analytical and statistical methodologies for social, behavioral, and economic sciences. It offers various funding mechanisms, including Regular Research Awards, Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement (DDRI), and Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grants. The program aims to enhance the utility of official statistics through collaborative research and supports early career development initiatives.

The Community Foundation of West Alabama offers community grants aimed at supporting charitable initiatives in various sectors including arts, education, health, and social welfare. Established in 1999, the foundation prioritizes projects that address critical community needs and foster collaboration. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations in specific Alabama counties, but do not fund individuals or religious purposes. The foundation prefers requests that demonstrate clear impact and sustainable financial planning.

The James C. Stewart Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable causes primarily in Tucson, Arizona, and Southern California. Founded by James Stewart, who was dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting the arts, the foundation provides an average grant of $10,000, awarding around five grants annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The foundation emphasizes arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit, continuing Stewart's legacy of generosity.

The Buster Coleman Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable initiatives, with an emphasis on religious, educational, scientific, and literary purposes, as well as the prevention of cruelty to children and animals. Founded by Buster Coleman in his will, this private foundation typically awards grants averaging $2,500, providing approximately six grants annually, with a total yearly giving of around $15,000. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to qualify.