The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has introduced the “NEA Big Read Program Solicitation, FY2024,” marked by the funding opportunity number NEAPS2403. This program is an embodiment of the NEA’s dedication to enhancing literary arts and community engagement across the United States. With an award ceiling of $1,507,000, this cooperative agreement is designed to support the 2025-2026 cycle of the NEA Big Read initiative, a community-focused literary arts program that aims to broaden understanding and foster connections through the joy of reading and storytelling.
Eligibility for this significant funding opportunity is limited to the six U.S. Regional Arts Organizations (RAOs), reflecting the NEA’s commitment to a broad-based, regional approach to literary promotion. The NEA Big Read initiative is renowned for its ability to bring communities together around shared literary experiences, encouraging dialogue and understanding through selected works of literature. The program awards subgrants, typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, to eligible organizations to host dynamic, community-wide programs. These programs are inspired by NEA Big Read-selected writers and their works, and aim to engage participants in a variety of literary activities.
Each participating community program is supported with resources, outreach materials, and training on various aspects of program implementation, including partnership development, public relations strategies, and event organization. This initiative not only enriches the cultural fabric of communities but also emphasizes the importance of literature in understanding diverse perspectives and experiences. The deadline for applications is January 18, 2024, presenting a pivotal opportunity for RAOs to lead and administer this enriching literary program. The NEA Big Read represents a strategic investment in cultural literacy and community cohesion, offering a unique blend of artistic excellence and community involvement.
Opportunity ID: 351021
General Information
| Document Type: | Grants Notice |
| Funding Opportunity Number: | NEAPS2403 |
| Funding Opportunity Title: | NEA Big Read Program Solicitation, FY2024 |
| Opportunity Category: | Discretionary |
| Opportunity Category Explanation: | |
| Funding Instrument Type: | Cooperative Agreement |
| Category of Funding Activity: | Arts (see “Cultural Affairs” in CFDA) |
| Category Explanation: | |
| Expected Number of Awards: | |
| CFDA Number(s): | 45.024 — Promotion of the Arts Grants to Organizations and Individuals |
| Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement: | Yes |
| Version: | Synopsis 2 |
| Posted Date: | Nov 16, 2023 |
| Last Updated Date: | Nov 16, 2023 |
| Original Closing Date for Applications: | Jan 18, 2024 |
| Current Closing Date for Applications: | Jan 18, 2024 |
| Archive Date: | |
| Estimated Total Program Funding: | |
| Award Ceiling: | $1,507,000 |
| Award Floor: | $1,507,000 |
Eligibility
| Eligible Applicants: | Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education |
| Additional Information on Eligibility: | Eligibility for this Cooperative Agreement is limited to the six U.S. Regional Arts Organizations. The applicant must meet the Eligibility Requirements for RAOs as specified in the National Endowment for the Arts Partnership Agreements guidelines and must have submitted acceptable Final Report packages by the due date(s) for all award(s) previously received. An organization may submit only one proposal under this program solicitation. |
Additional Information
| Agency Name: | National Endowment for the Arts |
| Description: | The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is seeking to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with a U.S. Regional Arts Organization (RAO) that will administer the 2025-2026 cycle of the NEA Big Read initiative. The NEA Big Read is a community-focused, literary arts initiative that broadens our understanding of ourselves and our neighbors through the power and joy of reading, writing, and sharing stories. The initiative selects eligible organizations around the country to host dynamic community-wide programs inspired by NEA Big Read-selected writers and/or works of literature. Each community program that receives an NEA Big Read subgrant—which generally ranges between $5,000 and $20,000—is also provided with resources, outreach materials, and training on various programmatic aspects such as working with local partners, developing public relations strategies, and facilitating activities and events. |
| Link to Additional Information: | Program Guidelines and Application Instructions |
| Grantor Contact Information: | If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: NEA Web Manager
webmgr@arts.gov |