The First Book Grant (FBG) for Research on Minoritized Christian Communities in North America
The First Book Grant supports early-career scholars researching the faith and practices of minoritized Christian communities in North America, enabling completion of major book projects through the Louisville Institute.
Funder: Louisville Institute
Due Dates: January 15, 2027 (full application) | January 22, 2027 (letters of recommendation & release letter)
Funding Amounts: Up to $55,000 for one academic or calendar year; typically used for salary/benefit replacement during sabbatical/research leave.
Summary: Supports early-career scholars researching minoritized Christian communities in North America by funding sabbatical time to complete first (or tenure-required second) scholarly books.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate significant adversity in their careers and secure institutional release for research leave.
Description
The First Book Grant (FBG) for Research on Minoritized Christian Communities in North America, offered by the Louisville Institute, provides substantial support for early-career, pre-tenured scholars to complete research and writing for their first scholarly book (or a second book if required for tenure). The grant specifically funds projects that explore Christian faith and practice within minoritized communities in the U.S. or Canada, with a focus on how religious beliefs, worship, leadership, and institutions are shaped by social history, migration, and cultural difference. Preference is given to projects that bridge academic scholarship and the life of the church in North America. The FBG is especially intended for scholars who have faced significant adversity and may lack institutional or financial support to complete a major book project.
