Advance Research That Strengthens a Free and Open Society
The Institute for Humane Studies supports independent research on digital governance, nuclear energy, deliberative democracy, and cost of living to advance understanding of free and open societies.
Funder: Institute for Humane Studies
Due Dates: July 1, 2026: Digital Governance as Liberal Experimentation RFP | July 1, 2026: Nuclear Energy and the Challenge of a Growing Grid RFP | July 10, 2026: Deliberative Democracy and the Effects of Deliberation RFP
Funding Amounts: Awards up to $20,000; larger awards possible for exceptional projects; no overhead/indirect costs supported.
Summary: Supports rigorous, independent research on the institutional, economic, and cultural foundations of a free and open society through targeted RFPs.
Key Information: Applications open to scholars at accredited institutions; proposals must closely address RFP questions.
Description
The Institute for Humane Studies (IHS) offers targeted research funding to academic scholars investigating the foundations of a free and open society. Through specific Requests for Proposals (RFPs), IHS seeks projects that engage with pressing issues such as digital governance, nuclear energy, deliberative democracy, and cost of living analysis. Scholars retain full independence over their research design, analysis, conclusions, and publication, ensuring unbiased, innovative contributions. Proposals should respond directly to the RFP’s central questions and may be interdisciplinary. Typical deliverables include peer-reviewed articles, policy white papers, or research databases.
