Private Higher Education
Supports projects at private U.S. colleges and universities to advance undergraduate liberal arts education, especially those fostering civil discourse, curricular innovation, and evidence-based strategies.
Funder: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations
Due Dates: August 27, 2026 (Letter of Inquiry) | November 13, 2026 (Full Proposal, by invitation)
Funding Amounts: $25,000–$300,000 typical award; larger requests considered; project duration usually 1–2 years, multi-year possible
Summary: Supports projects at private U.S. colleges and universities that advance undergraduate liberal arts education and foster civil discourse.
Key Information: Only open to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) private colleges, universities, or consortia; capital projects, endowments, and scholarships not funded.
Description
This grant opportunity from The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (AVDF) supports private colleges, universities, and consortia in the United States that prioritize undergraduate education and the liberal arts. The program funds projects designed to improve student outcomes, enhance faculty leadership, and promote the value and opportunities of a liberal arts education. A special emphasis is placed on initiatives that foster civil discourse and respectful dialogue across differences on campus, including both curricular and extra-curricular activities.
The program encourages innovative approaches to advocacy for the liberal arts and evidence-based strategies to broaden access to liberal arts learning. Projects may include, but are not limited to, the development of new programs, curriculum enhancements, faculty training, and campus-wide civil discourse initiatives.
