Private Higher Education Grants
AVDF funds innovative projects that improve student outcomes or faculty leadership at private, four-year, undergraduate-serving colleges and universities in the U.S.
Funder: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations
Due Dates: August 28, 2025 (LOI) | November 14, 2025 (Full Proposal) | August 27, 2026 (LOI) | November 13, 2026 (Full Proposal)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from $25,000 to $300,000; larger requests considered; project durations usually 1–2 years.
Summary: Supports innovative, discrete projects that advance excellence and innovation in private higher education at U.S. undergraduate-serving institutions.
Key Information: Only open to U.S.-based public charities supporting undergraduate education at private, four-year, residential colleges and universities.
Description
The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (AVDF) provide competitive grants for projects that advance excellence and innovation in private higher education across the United States. The program is focused on discrete, impactful projects that improve student outcomes or enhance faculty leadership at private, undergraduate-serving, four-year residential colleges and universities. Funding is awarded through a rigorous, multi-stage process beginning with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) and, for selected applicants, an invitation to submit a Full Proposal. AVDF emphasizes initiatives that demonstrate academic quality, innovative practices, and the potential for lasting institutional impact.
