Applications Open: First Book Grant for Scholars of Color 2025
The First Book Grant for Scholars of Color (FBG) is now accepting applications for its 2025 cycle. This prestigious grant offers early-career scholars of color the financial support needed to dedicate time for research and writing. The focus is on projects exploring Christian faith and life, ministry practices, religious movements, faith-based institutions, and the intersection of religion with broader social issues.
Purpose of the Grant
The grant aims to assist scholars in completing their first book manuscript, though it can also support a second book if required for tenure. Special consideration is given to projects that foster connections between the North American church and academic communities. Priority is awarded to proposals with existing traction, such as manuscripts under contract or in advanced consideration with publishers.
Grant Amount
Selected applicants may receive up to $55,000 in funding, enabling them to take academic sabbatical leave and focus on their work.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Self-identify as persons of color.
- Hold a terminal research degree (e.g., Ph.D., Th.D.).
- Be pre-tenured faculty members in full-time, tenure-track, or renewable contract positions at accredited institutions in the U.S. or Canada.
- Secure release from teaching and administrative duties for up to a full academic year.
- Be engaged in a research project leading to the publication of their first book (or second, if required for tenure).
- Work in fields such as history, theology, ethics, social sciences, biblical studies, or interdisciplinary areas.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the 2025 FBG Application Guide
The guide provides all necessary details about eligibility, application materials, and submission instructions. - Review Eligibility Requirements
Ensure you meet all criteria outlined in the guide. - Create an Account on the Application Portal
Use the portal to submit your application and supporting documents. - Prepare Application Materials
A complete application must include:- General Application Information
- Project Summary and Narrative
- Bibliography
- Line-Item Budget & Budget Narrative
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Letter of Release from your institution
- Submit by the Deadline
Applications are due January 15, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. EST. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by January 22, 2025.
Key Notes
- All application materials must be submitted online via the portal.
- Ensure all documents adhere to the guidelines provided in the application guide.
For more details and to access the application portal, visit the official page for the First Book Grant for Scholars of Color.
