Prize for Excellence and Innovation
Annual $100,000 grant for U.S. nonprofits supporting innovative research projects that advance public appreciation of decorative art, fine art, architecture, or landscape.
Funder: The Decorative Arts Trust
Due Dates: June 30, 2026 (Nomination submission deadline, annual)
Funding Amounts: $100,000 per award; project duration 1–5 years; one award annually
Summary: Annual prize supporting innovative nonprofit projects that advance public appreciation of decorative art, fine art, architecture, or landscape in the U.S.
Key Information: Funds cannot be used for overhead or staff salaries; at least one staff member must maintain Trust membership during the project.
Description
The Prize for Excellence and Innovation is awarded annually by The Decorative Arts Trust to a U.S.-based nonprofit organization for an outstanding scholarly project that advances the public’s appreciation of decorative art, fine art, architecture, or landscape. The prize is intended to recognize impactful, original projects—such as museum exhibitions, conservation and preservation initiatives, or the creation of online databases—that further scholarship in these fields while engaging a broad audience. The program encourages collaborative and multi-institutional efforts and supports projects that are innovative and demonstrate significant potential impact.
