[American Philosophical Society](https://www.amphilsoc.org)

Rolling (until funds are exhausted for the year)

$2,000–$5,000 for travel and lodging; amount tailored to applicant needs

Supports Indigenous-led research visits to the APS Library & Museum, advancing community-based priorities through collaboration and access to collections.

Simple Letter of Interest application; no academic affiliation required; open internationally (no visa sponsorship).

--- ## Description The Indigenous Community Research Fund (ICRF) provides financial support for Indigenous community members and collaborators to visit the American Philosophical Society (APS) Library & Museum in Philadelphia. The program is designed to advance projects that serve Indigenous community priorities through research in APS’s extensive collections, which include manuscripts, audio recordings, and images related to over 650 Indigenous cultures, predominantly from North and Central America. The process is highly collaborative: awardees will work closely with the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research (CNAIR) staff before, during, and after their visit. The program emphasizes relationship-building, flexibility, and alignment with Indigenous values and protocols. Funding is primarily for travel and lodging expenses, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis until annual funds are depleted. --- ## Due Dates - Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted for the year. - Funding resets annually on January 1. --- ## Funding Amount - Typical awards range from **$2,000 to $5,000** to cover travel and lodging. - The exact amount is tailored to the specific needs of the applicant and project. - Funding is limited and awarded based on demonstrated need and alignment with program priorities. --- ## Eligibility - **Primary audience:** Indigenous community members, elders, teachers, knowledge keepers, tribal officials, traditional leaders, museum/archive professionals, and independent scholars. - **No academic background or affiliation required.** - University-based scholars and independent researchers collaborating with Indigenous communities are eligible (must provide letters of support from relevant community members if requested). - Open to applicants worldwide; **visa sponsorship is not provided**. - Applicants may represent any Indigenous community whose cultural heritage is reflected in the APS collections. --- ## Application Process 1. **Review APS Collections:** - Explore the [Indigenous Subject Guide](https://indigenousguide.amphilsoc.org/) or contact CNAIR ([cnair@amphilsoc.org](mailto:cnair@amphilsoc.org)) to identify relevant materials. 2. **Submit Letter of Interest (LOI):** - Complete the [Google Form application](https://forms.gle/LCdPb86nd2fWc7iDA) introducing yourself, your community, and your research interests. 3. **Consultation:** - CNAIR staff will review your LOI and reach out to discuss your project, support needs, and logistics. 4. **Award Letter:** - If a visit is appropriate, APS will issue an award letter detailing funding, travel arrangements, and project specifics. 5. **Research Visit:** - Recipients receive ongoing support from CNAIR staff before, during, and after their visit. **Note:** Indigenous community members do not need to receive an award to access APS collections; reference and digitization assistance is available at no cost. --- ## Additional Information - Applications are considered as they are received; early submission is encouraged due to limited funding. - CNAIR can digitize collection materials for Indigenous community research requests at no cost. - Past projects have included language revitalization, archival research, and collaborative community history initiatives. - The application process has been simplified to remove barriers and prioritize collaboration. --- ## External Links - [Program Page & Application Instructions](https://www.amphilsoc.org/grants/indigenous-community-research-fund) - [Indigenous Subject Guide to APS Collections](https://indigenousguide.amphilsoc.org/) - [CNAIR Funding Opportunities Overview](https://www.amphilsoc.org/cnair-funding-opportunities) - [Google Form: Letter of Interest Submission](https://forms.gle/LCdPb86nd2fWc7iDA) - [APS Grants & Fellowships](https://www.amphilsoc.org/grants/fellowships) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |------------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [cnair@amphilsoc.org](mailto:cnair@amphilsoc.org) | | Phone | 215-440-3400 | | APS Contact Page | [https://www.amphilsoc.org/contact](https://www.amphilsoc.org/contact) | ---

Indigenous Community Research Fund

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