When drafting your proposal, please note that the foundation now prefers APA style and explicitly excludes references from the 1,800-word narrative limit. The updated guidelines also actively encourage collaborative projects that engage practitioners or communities. Additionally, the single-proposal limit has been clarified to apply across all major Spencer research programs.
Funder: Spencer Foundation
Due Dates: April 15, 2026: Full proposal deadline (Research Grants on Education: Small)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 for 1–5 years; up to $10,000 additional for course release (max $60,000 total); no indirect costs allowed.
Summary: Supports innovative, field-initiated research projects that advance foundational knowledge and improve education across diverse topics and methods.
Key Information: PI must hold a doctorate and be affiliated with a non-profit or public institution; projects must focus on education research.