Funding for American Academy of Religion Scholars
Louisville Institute grants and fellowships open June 1. Find the program that fits your work.
Support for Theological Scholars
You’re already doing the work. We help you fund it.
Louisville Institute funds research and scholarship that strengthens the Christian church in North America. Funded by Lilly Endowment, Inc., we support scholars, pastors, and researchers in the United States and Canada through grants and fellowships designed to resource your calling.
Explore grants and fellowships
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Funding & Fellowships
Grants up to $55,000 and one and two-year fellowships supporting research, dissertations, study projects, and early-career scholarly work.
Community
Join a network of scholars and church leaders through the Winter Seminar and ongoing mentoring programs.
Formation
Fellows participate in the Vocation of the Theological Educator Initiative, a multi-year learning community focused on vocation and leadership.
2026–2027 Programs
Grants and fellowships
Applications open June 1, 2026. Deadlines vary by program.
Grants
Pastoral Study Project Grant
For clergy and church leaders pursuing innovative projects in ministry and Christian life.
Up to $20,000 • Deadline: Aug. 12, 2026
Grant for Researchers
For scholars with a terminal degree researching Christian faith, ministry, and social impact.
Up to $55,000 • Deadline: Sept. 2, 2026
First Book Grant
For early-career scholars completing their first major book project and research for historically underrepresented Christian traditions and practices.
Up to $55,000 • Deadline: Jan. 15, 2027
Fellowships
Postdoctoral Fellowship
A two-year fellowship for early-career scholars launching careers in theological education.
Up to $150,000 • Deadline: Oct. 1, 2026
Dissertation Fellowship
For Ph.D. and Th.D. students in the final year of dissertation writing.
$35,000 • Deadline: Feb. 1, 2027
Doctoral Fellowship
Two years of funding and mentoring for first- or second-year doctoral students pursuing theological education as a vocation.
$6,000 • Deadline: Mar. 1, 2027
Our Impact
See the work this funding makes possible
Explore publications, past awardees, and projects shaping the future of church and academy.
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Questions? For grants, contact grants@louisville-institute.org. For fellowships, contact fellowships@louisville-institute.org.