[Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty](https://www.acton.org)

March 15, 2026 (full application deadline)

$20,000 award; travel expenses to present at the Calihan Lecture are also covered.

Recognizes early-career scholars for outstanding research on the intersection of religion, economic freedom, and a free and virtuous society.

Application must be mailed and postmarked by the deadline; electronic submissions are not accepted.

--- ## Description The Novak Award, administered by the Acton Institute, is an annual $20,000 prize honoring early-career scholars whose research advances understanding of the relationship between religion, economic freedom, and the principles underpinning a free and virtuous society. The award is named in honor of theologian Michael Novak and seeks to foster scholarship that connects theology to human dignity, the rule of law, limited government, religious liberty, and economic freedom. The recipient is also invited to present their research at the Calihan Lecture, with travel expenses provided. --- ## Due Dates - March 15, 2026: Completed application materials must be postmarked by this date. --- ## Funding Amount - $20,000 award to one recipient. - Travel expenses for the recipient to present at the Calihan Lecture are also provided. --- ## Eligibility - Open to current doctoral candidates and scholars who have received a doctorate within the previous five calendar years (from an accredited domestic or international program). - Eligible fields include theology, religion, philosophy, history, law, politics, economics, business, or related disciplines. - Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and a clear interest in the relationship between religion, economic liberty, and the free and virtuous society. - The award is open to all qualified persons regardless of race, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, citizenship, religious affiliation, or disability. --- ## Application Process - All application materials must be submitted by mail; faxed or emailed submissions will not be accepted. - Required materials: - Signed and completed [application form (PDF)](https://www.acton.org/sites/default/files/Novak-Application.pdf) (in English) - Curriculum vitae - 500-word essay describing intellectual development, future plans, career goals, and interest in relevant themes - A research paper, refereed published article, or other scholarly work on a relevant theme - Two letters of recommendation from professors or established scholars in the field - Mail completed application materials to: - Acton Institute Grants and Awards 98 East Fulton Street, Unit 101 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA - All award decisions are communicated via email. --- ## Additional Information - The recipient must present their research at the Calihan Lecture (with travel covered). - Any published work resulting from the award must acknowledge the Novak Award and the Acton Institute. - The Acton Institute may publicize the award and identify the recipient. - Recipients are responsible for compliance with applicable tax regulations. - The Acton Institute does not provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants. --- ## External Links - [Novak Award program page](https://www.acton.org/novak-award) - [Download application form (PDF)](https://www.acton.org/sites/default/files/Novak-Application.pdf) - [Academic Grants & Awards overview](https://www.acton.org/grants-awards) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact Details | |------------------|-----------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries| [grants-awards@acton.org](mailto:grants-awards@acton.org) | | Phone | (616) 454-3080 | | Website | [https://www.acton.org/novak-award](https://www.acton.org/novak-award) | | Mailing Address | Acton Institute Grants and Awards
98 East Fulton Street, Unit 101
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA | ---

Novak Award

Sign in to see full grant listing