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America’s 250th Anniversary Grant for Undergraduate Programming

Grant Amount: Up to $20,000

Most accepted proposals will not exceed $20,000, though we will consider larger grants for exceptional projects.

In 2026, our nation will commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, a historic milestone that calls for reflection, exploration, and celebration. To mark this occasion, the Institute for Humane Studies is launching a special round of funding for faculty who want to engage undergraduates in programming that highlights the themes of liberty, self-governance, liberalism, and the American experiment.

We invite professors to propose projects that inspire students to think deeply about America’s founding principles and their relevance today. Activities may take many forms including undergraduate-focused initiatives such as mentorship, reading groups, symposia, or research support, as well as public-facing events like lectures, panel discussions, or community forums that include meaningful opportunities for student participation.

Most accepted proposals will not exceed $20,000, though we will consider larger grants for exceptional projects.

Proposal

  • A brief description of the project’s purpose and its connection to America’s 250th anniversary
  • A preliminary outline of speakers, readings, or activities
  • A clear plan for undergraduate engagement
  • A budget breakdown for each proposed activity

Timeline

  • Application Opens: October 1, 2025
  • Submission Deadline: November 15, 2025
  • Funding decisions will be announced by mid-January 2026
  • All award activities must be completed within the 2026 calendar year

Through this special initiative, we seek to support creative programming that not only commemorates America’s 250th birthday but also empowers undergraduates to explore and apply the ideas of a free society.

Application Coming Soon

Here is the timeline for our application process:

  1. Apply for a position 
  2. An HR team member will review your application submission  
  3. If selected for consideration, you will speak with a recruiter 
  4. If your experience and skills match the role, you will interview with the hiring manager
  5. If you are a potential fit for the position, you will interview with additional staff members
  6. If you are the candidate chosen, we will extend a job offer

 

All candidates will be notified regarding the status of their application within two to three weeks of submission. As new positions often become available, we encourage you to visit our site frequently for additional opportunities that align with your interests and skills.