First Book Grant
Supports early-career scholars of color completing research and book manuscripts on Christian faith and practice in minoritized North American communities.
Funder: Louisville Institute
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027: Full application deadline | January 2027: Letters of recommendation due | January 2027: Letter of release due
Funding Amounts: Up to $55,000 for research leave (salary/benefit replacement, research costs, travel, etc.), typically for an academic or calendar year.
Summary: Supports early-career scholars of color completing books on minoritized Christian communities in North America, focusing on faith, practice, and cultural contexts.
Key Information: No indirect costs allowed; awardees must attend Winter Seminar in January 2027 (all expenses paid).
Description
This grant supports early-career, pre-tenured scholars of color in the United States or Canada who are working on research projects leading to the publication of their first (or, if required for tenure, second) book on Christian faith and practice within minoritized communities in North America. The program is designed to fund sabbatical or research leave, enabling recipients to focus on completing their book manuscripts. Preference is given to projects that bridge academic scholarship and the North American church, especially those already underway or under consideration with a publisher. Grantees are required to attend the Louisville Institute’s Winter Seminar in January 2027.
