The National Endowment for the Arts Big Read is a program that awards grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 to organizations. These grants support community reading programs designed around a single NEA Big Read book. As our nation moves into its 250th year, the goal of this program is to honor America’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, inspire meaningful conversations, celebrate local creativity, elevate a wide variety of voices and perspectives, and build stronger connections in each community.
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.
Programming for the 2026-2027 grant cycle will center around the theme America250. Applicants will choose a book from these 24 titles available in the NEA Big Read Library. This year’s NEA Big Read titles celebrate and honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. These books celebrate the country’s culture, history, and resilience through the eyes of its citizens. Using a book selection as inspiration, applicants will facilitate discussions, writing workshops, and creative programming activities that explore this theme and celebrate the unique aspects of their communities.
An Intent to Apply must be submitted by January 15, 2026, with a full application due by January 29, 2026. Arts Midwest is currently accepting applications for events occurring between September 01, 2026 and June 30, 2027. Projects must include a minimum number of book discussions and community events, partnerships with community organizations, and a 1:1 match of grant funds from a local source. The complete list of guidelines is here.