2026-27 NEA Big Read is Now Accepting Applications
Posted November 5, 2025
Discipline(s): All
Applications are now open for the NEA Big Read, a national program that offers matching grants of up to $20,000 to support community-wide reading programs. The NEA Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in partnership with Arts Midwest.
This year's NEA Big Read centers around the theme America250, honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The 24 books that applicants can choose to program this cycle celebrate America's culture, history, and resilience through the eyes of its people.
It offers matching grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Grantees will receive funding for their programming and purchasing books, and tools to support them in working with local partners, developing public relations strategies, and leading meaningful book discussions.
Key Dates:
- A mandatory Intent to Apply is due January 15, 2026
- Final applications due January 29, 2026.
- Funded programs will take place between September 2026 and June 2027
For more information click here.
Interested in applying? Click here to contact ORP
