The Big Read Program offers grants through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for the purpose of encouraging more reading in communities. Eligible organizations who can apply for grants include arts, cultural, literary, and civic organizations, such as libraries, museums, and local arts agencies.
Grants range from $2,500 to $20,000. All applicants must be non-profits who develop programs that encourage reading across diverse audiences. Programs can include book discussions and art exhibits, lectures and film series, author readings, music or dance events, theatrical performances, and other events and activities that promote reading.
The Big Read program began in 2006 and involved just ten communities. Since that time, The Big Read has expanded to include more communities and has awarded more than 1,100 grants to communities in the U.S. It is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, established in 1965 by Congress as an independent agency of the federal government. It is the largest annual national funder of the arts in the United States.
January 28, 2015 is the deadline to apply for this cycle of funding. A total of 75 organizations from across the country will be selected.
Find out how to qualify and apply for a grant by visiting www.neabigread.org/guidelines.php
