The New Jersey Council for the Humanities is currently accepting Letters of Intent for its Action Grants program. This initiative aims to support the implementation of public humanities projects that are designed for audiences based in New Jersey. The grants range in size from $3,000 to $15,000, with a project period of up to 12 months. The deadline for submitting Letters of Intent is September 30, 2024. The funding is intended to cover reasonable and necessary project costs incurred during the grant period.

The primary purpose of the Action Grants is to facilitate the development and execution of public humanities projects. Eligible projects may include fieldwork for oral history initiatives, hosting public humanities programs such as facilitated reading and discussion sessions, creating humanities-based public exhibitions and tours, and producing digital humanities projects or multimedia resources. The grants are designed to enhance public engagement with the humanities and to foster a deeper understanding of cultural and historical contexts.

Funding from the Action Grants can be used for various project-related expenses. These may include costs for project personnel, travel and lodging, materials and supplies, and other necessary services. It is important for applicants to provide a comprehensive budget that includes all project costs, not just those covered by the NJCH grant. Additionally, applicants are required to demonstrate matching funds that equal at least 100 percent of the amount requested from NJCH, which can come from the applicant organization or third-party sources.

Eligible applicants for the Action Grants include New Jersey-based nonprofit organizations and government entities, such as public libraries, museums, historical societies, academic institutions, religious groups, and community organizations. Organizations with missions outside of public humanities may also apply if the funding will support relevant work. All applicants must have federal or state tax-exempt status and at least one year of verifiable public operation prior to submitting their proposals. For-profit organizations and individuals are not eligible to apply.

Submission requirements include a Letter of Intent, which must be submitted by the specified deadline. The application process may involve answering specific questions related to the proposed project, its objectives, and its anticipated impact on the community. Evaluation criteria will focus on the project's relevance to public humanities, its feasibility, and the potential for community engagement.

The timeline for the Action Grants includes the deadline for Letters of Intent on September 30, 2024. Following this, applicants will be notified about the next steps in the application process. It is essential for interested organizations to adhere to the specified deadlines and to maintain accurate financial records, as grants may be subject to audits by NJCH and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

For further information regarding the Action Grants, potential applicants can visit the New Jersey Council for the Humanities website. The contact email for inquiries is grants@njhumanities.org. This grant opportunity represents a valuable chance for organizations in New Jersey to secure funding for projects that promote public engagement with the humanities.