[Sloan Foundation](https://sloan.org)

March 2026 | June 2026 | November 2026

No fixed minimum or maximum; awards typically range from $50,000 to over $250,000 depending on project scale and duration.

Supports projects that enhance public understanding of science and technology, especially those bridging science and the humanities through diverse media.

--- ## Description This program supports initiatives that foster public appreciation and understanding of science and technology by bridging the gap between science and the humanities. The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation seeks to mainstream science and technology for the lay public through books, theater, film, television, radio, and new media. The aim is to build a common language and culture between scientific and humanistic disciplines, making scientific ideas and challenges accessible and engaging to broad audiences. --- ## Due Dates - March 2026 (anticipated) - June 2026 (anticipated) - November 2026 (anticipated) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - There is no fixed minimum or maximum funding amount. - Typical grants range from $50,000 to over $250,000, depending on the scope and duration of the project. - Grants may support single or multi-year projects. - For grants above $50,000, indirect costs are capped at 20% of direct project costs; no indirect costs allowed for grants of $50,000 or less. --- ## Eligibility - The Foundation does not generally make grants to individuals, except through its Books program. - Grants are typically made to nonprofit organizations, universities, and other tax-exempt institutions. - For-profit entities are generally not eligible. - Projects must clearly relate to public understanding of science, technology, or economics; creative or performing arts projects are eligible only if they serve this educational mission. - The Foundation does not fund medical research, research in the humanities, political activity, or projects aimed at pre-college students (except via its NYC initiative). - See [Sloan Foundation eligibility guidelines](https://sloan.org/grants/apply) for full details. --- ## Application Process 1. **Review Program Goals:** Read the [program description](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding) to ensure alignment. 2. **Letter of Inquiry:** Submit a brief Letter of Inquiry (LOI) by email to the relevant program director. The LOI should include: - Project summary and purpose - Description of proposed work - Estimated total cost and amount requested from Sloan - Project duration - PI and team contact information 3. **Invitation to Propose:** If your LOI is of interest, you may be invited to submit a full proposal. 4. **Full Proposal:** Follow the [Sloan Foundation proposal guidelines](https://sloan.org/storage/app/media/files/application_documents/Sloan-Grant-Proposal-Guidelines-Research-Projects.pdf), which require: - Proposal cover sheet - Narrative (15–20 pages depending on budget) - Participation & Engagement Plan - Budget and justification - Required appendices (citations, CVs, methods, information products, conflicts of interest) - Additional appendices as applicable (e.g., for conferences, letters of support) 5. **Submission:** Submit the full proposal by email as instructed by the program director. --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation values projects that promote diversity, inclusion, and broad participation in science. - Proposals may be subject to internal and external peer review. - The Foundation does not fund endowments, fundraising, or construction/renovation projects. - For more tips, see [How to Apply](https://sloan.org/grants/apply). --- ## External Links - [Program Page: Public Understanding of Science & Technology](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding) - [Application Guidelines (PDF)](https://sloan.org/storage/app/media/files/application_documents/Sloan-Grant-Proposal-Guidelines-Research-Projects.pdf) - [How to Apply](https://sloan.org/grants/apply) - [Recent Program Highlights](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/program-highlights) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | frontdesk@sloan.org | | Phone | +1 212-649-1649 | | Program Information | [Program Page](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding) | | Mailing Address | 630 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10111, USA | | Contact Form | [Contact the Sloan Foundation](https://sloan.org/about/contact) |

Public Understanding of Science & Technology

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