The First Book Grant (FBG) for Research on Minoritized Christian Communities in North America
The Louisville Institute's First Book Grant supports early-career scholars researching minoritized Christian communities in North America for publication of their first major academic book.
Funder: Louisville Institute
Due Dates: January 15, 2027: Application deadline | January 22, 2027: Letters of recommendation deadline | January 22, 2027: Letter of release deadline
Funding Amounts: Up to $55,000 for an academic or calendar year; typically supports salary/benefit replacement for sabbatical/research leave.
Summary: Supports early-career scholars completing book projects on minoritized Christian communities in the US or Canada, with emphasis on bridging academic research and lived religious experience.
Key Information: Highly competitive (3 awards per cycle); no indirect costs allowed; grantees must attend Winter Seminar.
Description
This grant supports early-career, pre-tenured scholars—especially those teaching at theological schools—who are conducting research and writing for the publication of their first scholarly book, or a second book if required for tenure. The focus is on Christian faith and practice within minoritized communities in the United States or Canada, examining how religious beliefs, worship, leadership, and institutions are shaped by social history, migration, and cultural difference. Projects that bridge academic scholarship and the life of the North American church are prioritized. The grant provides funding for academic or sabbatical leave, enabling recipients to devote a full school year to their research project free from teaching and administrative obligations.
