The NEA Big Read annually provides support to selected nonprofit organizations around the country to host dynamic community-wide reading programs, each designed around a single NEA Big Read title chosen from the current list of offerings. Organizations apply for funding through a grants program managed by Arts Midwest. Each community program that receives an NEA Big Read grant—which ranges between $5,000 and $20,000—is also provided with resources, outreach materials, and training on various aspects such as working with local partners, developing public relations strategies, and leading book discussions and Q&As.
Programming for the 2024-2025 grant cycle will center around the theme WHERE WE LIVE. Using a book selection as inspiration, applicants will choose one or more aspects of this theme as it relates to their own communities. For example, a community may explore its physical environment, people, industry and culture, history, and/or imagine an alternate reality.
An Intent to Apply must be submitted by Wednesday, January 10, 2024, with a completed application submitted by Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Arts Midwest is currently accepting applications for events occurring between September 01, 2024 and June 30, 2025. 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.