Program in Support of Archaeological Field Research in the Development of Early Civilizations supports archaeologists' fieldwork and excavation to understand the origins and development of early civilizations.
Funder: Curtiss T. & Mary G. Brennan Foundation
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (October application deadline) | April 15, 2027 (April application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to US$5,000
Summary: Supports archaeological field research, particularly excavation, that advances understanding of the origins and development of early civilizations.
Key Information: Applications must come from a qualifying nonprofit sponsoring institution through a principal investigator with a Ph.D. or equivalent.
The Curtiss T. & Mary G. Brennan Foundation, a nonprofit established in 1988, supports archaeological field research in regions where early centers of complex culture or civilization originated. Active field archaeology, particularly excavation, is emphasized. Its announced pilot programs focus on early Mediterranean civilizations and Andean South America, supporting independent research, initial investigations establishing project significance and feasibility, and important ancillary portions of ongoing projects.
The foundation views its grants as seed money that enables significant projects to begin or substantially expand their work before seeking major funding. The central priority is a project's contribution to understanding the origins and subsequent development of cultural complexity and civilization. Post-excavation analysis, processing, publication, and other activities supporting field research are considered only in connection with previously funded field projects.