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

Rolling (no fixed deadline; applications accepted year-round)

No set minimum or maximum; awards vary by project scope, with major grants (>$250K) approved quarterly.

Supports the development, commissioning, and production of science-themed plays to enhance public engagement with science through theater.

Unsolicited scripts are not accepted; applicants must apply through partner organizations or by invitation.

--- ## Description The Sloan Foundation's Theater Program is a nationwide initiative designed to foster the creation, development, and production of science-themed plays. By partnering with prominent theater organizations—such as Ensemble Studio Theatre and Manhattan Theatre Club—the program has commissioned over 250 new works, staged more than 60 plays in New York, and facilitated productions across the U.S. and internationally. The program aims to encourage both emerging and established playwrights to explore scientific themes, promote regional and national productions, and expand public engagement through panels, readings, and special events. Selected plays may also be recorded and broadcast through collaborations with organizations like LA Theatre Works. --- ## Due Dates - Rolling submissions; applications are accepted year-round. - Major grant decisions (over $250,000) are made quarterly. *There is no set annual or periodic deadline. All applications are evaluated on a rolling basis.* --- ## Funding Amount - No specified minimum or maximum award amount. - Funding is tailored to the scope and needs of each project. - Major grants (over $250,000) require quarterly review and approval. - Typical support includes script development, production costs, and public engagement activities. --- ## Eligibility - The Foundation does **not** accept unsolicited scripts, treatments, or pitch letters directly. - Applications must be made through the Foundation’s theater partner organizations or by invitation. - Generally, grants are made to nonprofit institutions; the Foundation does not make grants to individuals (except through its Books program) or for-profit entities. - Projects must center on science, technology, or economics themes with a public engagement component. - The Foundation does **not** support projects in religion, medical research, or the humanities unless directly related to public understanding of science. --- ## Application Process - **Step 1:** Review the program description and eligibility criteria on the [Sloan Theater Program page](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/theater). - **Step 2:** If eligible, submit a letter of inquiry (LOI) to the appropriate program director or apply via a partner organization (such as Ensemble Studio Theatre or Manhattan Theatre Club). - Letters of Inquiry should include: project summary, description, estimated budget, duration, and key personnel. - **Step 3:** If invited, submit a full proposal following the Foundation’s guidelines. - **Important:** The Foundation does **not** accept or review unsolicited scripts or proposals for this program. Contact and submit through partner organizations where applicable. --- ## Additional Information - The program is recognized as a leading national supporter of science plays. - Plays supported by the program have received critical acclaim and awards, including Tony and Pulitzer Prizes. - The program’s reach includes national and international productions, radio broadcasts, and educational distribution. - For a list of supported productions and partners, see the [Theater Productions Database](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/theater/list). --- ## External Links - [Sloan Foundation Theater Program Overview](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/theater) - [How to Apply for Sloan Foundation Grants](https://sloan.org/grants/apply) - [Theater Productions Database](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/theater/list) - [Contact Sloan Foundation](https://sloan.org/about/contact) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |-------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | Email | frontdesk@sloan.org | | Phone | +1 212-649-1649 | | Mailing Address | 630 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10111, USA | | Online Contact | [Contact Page](https://sloan.org/about/contact) |

Theater Program

Sign in to see full grant listing