CHICAGO – The Illinois Humanities Council (IHC) invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding for public humanities projects. Proposals for mini grants of up to $2,000 are due by January 15, 2009 (postmark); proposals for major grants of up to $10,000 are due by February 15, 2009 (postmark).

Any nonprofit group, organization, or institution is eligible to apply to the IHC for financial support of a public project in the humanities, including documentary films, local and community history projects, literary symposia, and oral history projects. Mini grants are restricted to organizations with annual budgets under $1 million or to organizations applying for new or experimental programs. The IHC makes it a priority to fund projects developed by, for, or aimed at reaching new or historically neglected audiences. 

Potential applicants may review and download grant applications and guidelines online at www.prairie.org/grants. Applicants may also call 312.422.5580 or email ihc@prairie.org for more information. IHC program officers are also available for consultation, and new applicants are encouraged to contact them for grant advice.

The Illinois Humanities Council is a nonprofit educational organization [501 (c) 3] dedicated to fostering a culture in which the humanities are a vital part of the lives of individuals and communities. Organized in 1973 as the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the IHC creates programs and funds organizations that promote greater understanding of, appreciation for, and involvement in the humanities by all Illinoisans, regardless of their economic resources, cultural background, or geographic location. The IHC is supported by state, federal, and private funds.

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