Call for Grant Applications -Bridging Narratives Grant Program
About Organisation
The Spencer Foundation has been a leading supporter of education research since 1971 and remains the only national foundation in the United States solely focused on funding education-related studies. The Foundation is committed to investing in research that transforms lives, promotes learning across the lifespan, and builds more equitable education systems. At its core, the Spencer Foundation believes that research in education is essential for social progress and improving educational practice.
Its mission centers on funding high-quality, impactful, and methodologically sound research that supports the development of a better and more inclusive society. The Foundation promotes education research that is not only academically rigorous but also accessible to the wider public. By broadening the spectrum of scholars, strengthening research training, and enhancing the influence of educational studies on policy and practice, the Spencer Foundation aims to foster innovation in the field. It supports diverse perspectives, encourages collaboration, and values projects that engage with real-world educational challenges. Its work spans both domestic and international contexts, empowering scholars and institutions around the world to conduct impactful research that benefits learners, educators, and communities alike.
About the Grant
The Large Research Grants on Education Program offered by the Spencer Foundation supports ambitious and impactful education research projects. Grants under this program range from $125,000 to $500,000, with a project duration of one to five years. This is a field-initiated program, which means researchers are encouraged to propose topics based on their own interests and expertise, rather than responding to a set theme.
This grant is designed to support methodologically rigorous and intellectually ambitious studies that explore significant issues in education. The Foundation welcomes a broad range of disciplines—including anthropology, philosophy, psychology, law, sociology, economics, and more—provided the research contributes meaningfully to the field of education. Studies can focus on learning in various settings such as classrooms, communities, workplaces, and informal environments.
The Spencer Foundation values diverse research methods, including qualitative, quantitative, historical, ethnographic, and participatory approaches. Collaborative, multidisciplinary, and multigenerational research teams are encouraged, particularly those committed to fostering mentorship and knowledge-sharing. Successful proposals should also outline how their findings may inform practice, influence policy, and be communicated to broader audiences.
Who can Apply?
Applicants for the Large Research Grants on Education must propose academic research projects specifically focused on education. Applications for non-research activities—such as curriculum development, professional development, or program evaluations—are not eligible.
The Principal Investigator (PI) and any Co-PIs must hold an earned doctorate in an academic or professional discipline. Graduate students are allowed to be part of the research team but cannot serve as PIs or Co-PIs. Furthermore, applicants must be affiliated with a non-profit or public/governmental organization that is eligible to administer the grant. This includes universities, research institutes, school districts, and other qualifying non-profit organizations. Grants are not awarded directly to individuals.
Organizations must hold a non-profit status—such as a 501(c)(3) in the U.S. or an equivalent status internationally. Although the grant accepts proposals from around the world, all submissions must be in English and budgets presented in U.S. Dollars.
The Spencer Foundation values proposals from researchers at all career stages and encourages submissions from diverse teams and underrepresented perspectives. Projects that engage practitioners or communities, utilize varied research methods, and demonstrate the potential to impact educational practice, policy, and scholarship are especially encouraged.
How to Apply?
The application process begins by submitting an “Intent to Apply” form through the Foundation’s online portal. Once submitted, applicants gain access to the full proposal application. Proposals must follow the guidelines provided and adhere to deadlines. Only completed applications submitted via the portal will be considered.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit the full proposal for the Large Research Grants on Education is June 17, 2025, by 12:00 PM noon Central (Chicago) Time.
Last Date To Apply
The last date to submit the “Intent to Apply” form is May 14, 2025, by 12:00 PM noon Central (Chicago) Time. This is mandatory to access the full application.
Grant Amount
The grant provides funding between $125,000 and $500,000 for research projects spanning one to five years, supporting impactful and methodologically rigorous education studies from diverse disciplinary perspectives.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
