Russell Sage Foundation Core Research Grants fund innovative social science research to advance understanding of U.S. social and economic conditions.
Funder: Russell Sage Foundation
Due Dates: June 18, 2026 (invited proposal) | July 15, 2026 (LOI) | October 26, 2026 (invited proposal) | October 28, 2026 (LOI) | February 22, 2027 (invited proposal)
Funding Amounts: Trustee Grants up to $200,000 (max 2 years); Presidential Grants up to $50,000 (up to $75,000 in specific cases)
Summary: Supports rigorous, well-developed social science research projects that advance understanding of social and economic conditions in the United States.
Key Information: All applicants must submit a letter of inquiry (LOI) and only invited proposals are considered; strict deadlines apply (2pm ET/11am PT).
The Russell Sage Foundation's Core Research Grants provide funding for advanced social science research that aligns with the Foundation’s mission of improving social and economic conditions in the United States. Projects should be fully developed at the time of application, with a clear research design, defined sample framework, and secured access to necessary data. The Foundation prioritizes innovative research that utilizes new or creatively linked data and methods to address important questions in its core program areas and special initiatives. The grant process is highly competitive, with a multi-stage peer review and advisory committee evaluation.