Now Accepting Applications: 2026-27 NEA Big Read

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.

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.
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The NEA Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in partnership with Arts Midwest. 
 

About NEA Big Read
  • What is it? The NEA Big Read is a reading program that brings communities together around the central theme America250 using one of 24 available books as inspiration. It offers matching grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
  • Who can apply? Nonprofit arts organizations, universities, libraries, service organizations, museums, school districts, and tribal governments are all encouraged to apply.
  • Where? Your organization must be located and operate within the United States or the Native Nations that share this geography.
  • When to apply? A mandatory Intent to Apply is due January 15, 2026, with final applications due January 29, 2026. Funded programs will take place between September 2026 and June 2027.

Read more about eligibility and how to apply in the guidelines.