Category: Grants

CFP Media Analytics for Developing and Testing Theories of Social Structure and Interaction

Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 Department of Defense Multidisciplinary Research Program of the University Research Initiative – Media Analytics for Developing and Testing Theories of Social Structure and Interaction

The purpose of this initiative is to advance the state of social sciences and their formalization to develop causal theories and methods to recognize/ predict social contexts, relationships, networks, and intentions from social media, taking into account non-verbal communication such as gestures, micro-expressions, posture, and latent semantics of text and speech.

Research Concentration Areas: Research is needed to integrate empirical generalizations on latent features of communication – how language is used differently by individuals of different social statuses in groups – into one or more coherent theories (Communication). For instance, leaders use spoken and written language differently than followers (Sociology, Anthropology); women and men differ markedly in how they communicate; individuals from lower socioeconomic groups are frequently the innovators when it comes to developing new ways to use language vis-à-vis individuals from the upper-class. Yet, these commonly observable patterns have yet to be rigorously verified and integrated into coherent theories of language, social structure, and social interaction (Network Science). Also, research is needed to further develop algorithms (Computer Science) that can accurately detect key features of speech linked to these structural patterns (e.g., humor, metaphor, emotion, language innovations) and subtle non-verbal elements of communication (e.g., pitch, posture, gesture) from text, audio, and visual media (Machine Learning, Multi-media algorithms). Thus, this research necessarily requires an interdisciplinary, cross-cultural approach to link features of language use and structure in text and non-verbal communication styles to social structure and action (e.g., communicators’ changes of positions in status hierarchies, roles in power dynamics, shift in group alliances).

Amount:
Upper  $6,250,000USD Lower  $1,000,000USD
It is anticipated that awards under this topic will be no more than an average of $1.25M per year for 5 years, supporting no more than 6 funded faculty researchers (and their teams). Exceptions warranted by specific proposal approaches should be discussed with the topic chief during the white paper phase of the solicitation.

Eligibility:
Eligible Applicants: Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
This topic has been designated for potential US/UK collaborative proposals

This MURI competition is open only to and full proposals are to be submitted only by U.S. institutions of higher education (universities) including DoD institutions of higher education, with degree-granting programs in science and/or engineering. To the extent that it is a part of a U.S. institution of higher education and is not designated as a Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC), a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) or other University Affiliated Laboratory (UAL) is eligible to submit a proposal to this MURI competition and receive MURI funds. However, the eligibility of a UAL (other than an FFRDC) to submit a URI proposal does not exempt the proposal from any evaluation factor contained in this FOA. Ineligible organizations (e.g., industry, DoD laboratories, FFRDCs, and foreign universities) may collaborate on the research but may not receive MURI funds directly or via subaward.

Due Dates:
September 8, 2015: White paper
December 7, 2015: Full proposal

Spark Grants – Humanities Washington (Seattle)

Spark Grant Guidelines
Spark Grants bring to life Humanities Washington’s mission of sparking conversation and critical thinking to help create informed, engaged communities across our state. Spark Grants support projects at large and small organizations that encourage thoughtful consideration of issues and provide social, historical and philosophical context to better understand our complex world.

While there are many opportunities for individuals to access information – e.g., the media, Internet, books – there are relatively few outlets for people to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns about this information with other people, especially those with viewpoints different from their own. Spark Grants are available to help “spark” and sustain these important conversations.

We are especially interested in supporting programs that bring together diverse groups of people. To serve broader audiences and promote partnerships, Spark Grants will only be awarded to projects that are the result of a collaboration between two or more organizations. In addition, these projects must be:
• Based in dialogue and discussion
• Open to the general public
• Free or low-cost to attend

Project formats may include:
• Lectures and readings
• Community conversations
• Reading and discussion groups
• Public forums
• Panel presentations

Spark Grants can be used to fund public programs that build on themes developed in a larger project, such as discussions in conjunction with exhibitions or film festivals.

2015 Spark Grant Timeline
• Letter of intent due: August 28, 2015
• Full applications due: September 25, 2015
• Grant applicants notified of funding decisions: Week of November 23, 2015
• Funded grant activity can begin: December 15, 2015

Who is Eligible for Funding
Any nonprofit organization or public agency is eligible to apply for a Spark Grant. While applicants do not need to be incorporated or have tax-exempt status, they must be organized for nonprofit purposes and funded activities must clearly serve a Washington state audience. In addition:
• Organizations may apply for a Spark Grant only once in a calendar year.
• Organizations that have previously received Humanities Washington funding must submit a final report before applying again with a new project.

Individuals are not eligible to receive Humanities Washington grants.

Award Amounts
Spark Grants are awarded through a competitive grant process. Award amounts range from $1,001 to $7,500. Please note that Humanities Washington has limited grant funds to award, and not all eligible applicants may receive funding. Please review the list of permitted project costs and matching funds requirements.

How to Apply for a Spark Grant
Please review the How to Apply page to see if your project is eligible for funding and to access the online application form. We also strongly recommend that you review the Application Tips before starting your application.

Grant Writing Consultation
Humanities Washington staff is available to consult with applicants on draft proposals by telephone or in person by appointment prior to any application deadline (a minimum of four weeks before the deadline is advised). We strongly recommend that you review the Application Tips before starting your application and/or contacting staff. Calls and emails are returned to applicants in the order they are received in our office. We will contact all applicants who submit a Letter of Interest to discuss the proposed project.

American Cultural Centers and Cultural Programming in China

American Cultural Centers and Cultural Programming in the People’s Republic of China

The Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China is pleased to announce an open competition for assistance awards. PAS invites organizations to submit proposals for the establishment of an American Cultural Center (ACC) through an existing partnership with a Chinese institution and/or comprehensive U.S. cultural-related programming at space provided by a Chinese partner institution as needed.

The ACCs created through this initiative are open to organization/institution faculty, staff, and students of all levels, as well as the general public for specific events. The ACCs’ goal is to provide a space to create a community and interactions that allow Chinese audiences to better understand the United States, its culture, society, government, language, law, economic system, and values. The ACCs seek to address the broad spectrum of responsible U.S. opinions in a climate of academic freedom and open-ended inquiry. Areas of programming at ACCs may include (but are not limited to):
– Invited public, private, and academic speakers to engage audiences on U.S. culture, society, government, language, law, economic system, and values, etc.;
– Cultural programming representing a broad range of U.S. visual and performing arts;
– Information resources on U.S. culture, society, government, language, law, economic system, and values, etc. in print and/or electronic form.

Eligible applicants:
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education

The Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China is pleased to announce an open competition for assistance awards through this Request for Applications (RFA). PAS invites U.S. post-secondary accredited institutions of higher learning (Public, Private, and State) and not-for-profit organizations subject to 501 (c) (3) of the tax code to submit proposals for the establishment of an American Cultural Center (ACC) through an existing partnership with a Chinese institution and/or comprehensive U.S. cultural-related programming at space provided by a Chinese partner institution as needed. PAS will award three grants up to US$100,000 per grant.

Closing date for applications:
July 31, 2015

CFP Promoting Reconciliation and Advancing Accountability in Sri Lanka

Promoting Reconciliation and Advancing Accountability in Sri Lanka

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Proposals (RFP) from organizations interested in submitting proposals for projects that will support the bureau’s policy priorities of promoting reconciliation and advancing transparency and accountability in Sri Lanka. DRL invites organizations to submit proposals for programs to conduct the following:

1. Advancing reconciliation and cooperation across religious and ethnic lines (approximately $750,000, pending availability of funding): DRL’s goal is to facilitate cooperation across religious and ethnic lines to advance reconciliation so that all citizens of Sri Lanka can live with each other in peace. The bureau seeks proposals that will create opportunities for religious and ethnic groups to come together to promote reconciliation through cross-community communication and initiatives. Program approaches should not be limited to dialogues; activities should include concrete actions to foster intercommunity trust and collaboration. The use of traditional and alternative media to encourage collaboration among diverse communities could also be considered. Strong consideration will also be given to proposals that work to facilitate interaction among communities in the north/east and south.

2. Advancing transparency and accountability and countering corruption (approximately $1,000,000, pending availability of funding): DRL’s goal is to counter corruption and advance transparency and accountability. The bureau’s objective is to strengthen the technical capacity of the Commission to Investigate Allegation of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) so that it can more effectively serve the citizens of Sri Lanka. The program approach should include working with CIABOC to enhance the documentation, processing, monitoring, and resolution of corruption and bribery cases, train staff on effective case management, and assist the Commission to educate government entities, civil society organizations, and the broader public about its work. Activities could include technical capacity building, awareness raising initiatives, as well as procurement of necessary software and equipment.

Amount: Upper  $1,000,000USD Lower $500,000USD
For each program area, proposals that have at least an 18-month timeframe will be viewed more competitively.

Closing date: July 15, 2015

Sponsor:
United States Department of State (DOS)
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL)
Sponsor ID: DRLA-DRLAQM-15-079

Eligibility:
Organizations submitting proposals must meet the following criteria:
– Be a U.S.-based or foreign-based non-profit organization/non-government organization (NGO), or a public international organization; or
– Be a for-profit organization or business, although there are restrictions on payment of fees and/or profits to the prime recipient under grants and cooperative agreements,
including those outlined in 48 CFR Part 30 (“Cost Accounting Standards”), 48 CFR Part 31 (“Cost Principles”), and 22 CFR 145.24(b)(3)(“Program Income”);
3. Have existing, or the capacity to develop, active partnerships with thematic partners or in-country partners, entities, and relevant stakeholders including industry and NGOs; and
4. Have demonstrable experience administering successful and preferably similar projects. DRL reserves the right to request additional background information on organizations that do not have previous experience administering federal grant awards. These applicants may be subject to limited funding on a pilot basis.

Organizations may form consortia and submit a combined proposal. However, one organization should be designated as the lead applicant.

Applications that request less than the award floor ($500,000) or more than the award ceiling ($ 1,000,000) will be deemed technically ineligible.

U.S. Mission to the European Union Funding Opportunity

The U.S. Mission to the European Union (USEU) is soliciting proposals for projects aimed at increasing understanding of U.S. foreign policy and economic priorities related to the EU; supporting U.S. goals of advancing economic growth in both regions and worldwide; and furthering U.S.-EU understanding and cooperation on our shared cultural, political and economic values, particularly democracy, rule of law, and human rights. USEU will award several cooperative agreements for projects to be carried out between September 2015 and December 2016. Section I: Funding Opportunity Description The U.S. Mission to the European Union (USEU) Public Affairs Section is soliciting proposals for projects aimed at increasing understanding of U.S. foreign policy and economic priorities; supporting U.S. goals of advancing economic growth in both regions and worldwide; and furthering U.S.-EU understanding and cooperation on our shared cultural, political and economic values, particularly democracy, rule of law, and human rights. Applicants should be legally recognized non-profit, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), think tanks, or academic institutions that comply with U.S. and EU requirements and have a proven track record of developing and implementing programs in the EU environment.

Sponsor: United States Department of State (DOS), Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
Closing Date for Applications: Jul 10, 2015
Estimated Total Program Funding: $180,000
Award Ceiling: $60,000
Award Floor: $10,000

CFP Research in France through Fondation Maison des sciences de l’homme

Associate Research Directors (DEA) | First call for proposals 2016
Deadline : June 22th, 2015

Created in 1975 upon the initiative of Fernand Braudel, in collaboration with the French Secretary of State for Universities, Department for Higher Education and Research, the DEA Programme (Directeurs d’Études Associés, or Associate Research Directors) is the oldest international mobility programme at Fondation Maison des sciences de l’homme. It provides funding to invite international scientific experts from across the globe for one or two months and enables them to carry out work in France (field enquiries, library work and archives).

Participation requirements
The programme is intended solely for professors and senior researchers with a PhD, or equivalent, working in institutions of higher education and research.
Applicants must be no older than 65 at the time of their stay.

Benefits
A monthly allowance of 3 300 € is awarded for transport and stay expenses. In addition, FMSH provides support for visa applications and logistics (accommodation and access to libraries).

Applications and deadline
Applications must be sent before June 22th 2015.

Content of the application
*A curriculum vitae (with date of birth)
*A list of scientific publications
*A research project (4 pages minimum) with the dates of stay, and a bibliography
*A letter of support by a French researcher is welcome
*Applications should be sent via our online platform

Once on the platform, in your online application for DEA, please select for the year of the call : 2016 and for the session of the call : June 2015.

For further information or if you encounter difficulties, contact Fondation Maison des sciences de l’homme. candidatures.dea@msh-paris.fr

After a scientific expertise of the research projects, decisions regarding invitations are made by a commission made up of the administrator, scientific directors of the FMSH, as well as various specialists.

Results will be communicated directly to applicants by the end of October 2015.

The research stay must start no later than November 1st 2016.

CFP Humanities in the Public Square Grants

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has announced a new grant opportunity, called “Humanities in the Public Square,” that will put humanities scholars in direct dialogue with the public on some of the most pressing issues of today– through public forums, community programs, and the development of educational resources.

This new grant opportunity is part of the National Endowment for the Humanities’ agency-wide initiative The Common Good: The Humanities in the Public Square, which seeks to demonstrate and enhance the role and significance of the humanities and humanities scholarship in public life.

The NEH Humanities in the Public Square program will award grants of up to $300,000 to institutions for projects that incorporate:
– a public forum, to be held in May 2016, that engages humanities practitioners in discussion with a public audience about a theme of contemporary significance;
– public programs, commencing in spring of 2016, that would use creative formats, such as book or film discussion programs, local history projects, scholarly talks or courses for lifelong learners, to engage the public or specific audiences in sustained conversations on a chosen theme;
– the creation and dissemination of educational resources that will extend the reach of the content developed for the public forum and public programs through digital resources or curricular materials for use by use by teachers, students and lifelong learners.

Application guidelines and a list of FAQs for the Humanities in the Public Square program are available online. The application deadline for the initial cycle of Humanities in the Public Square grants is June 24, 2015.

CFP Waterhouse Family Institute 2015-16 Research Grants

Villanova University‘s Waterhouse Family Institute for the Study of Communication and Society (WFI) is pleased to both CALL FOR GRANT APPLICATIONS for 2015/16 and to celebrate the recipients of the WFI 2014/15 Research Grants.

The WFI-endowed by Mr. Lawrence Waterhouse, Jr., and housed within Villanova University’s Department of Communication-was founded on the principle that scholars, activists, and practitioners of communication have an important role to play in the creation of a socially just world. One of the ways that we enact this mission is through the annual funding of research grants. These grants support the scholarly work of Communication scholars across the world, work examining communication, its impact on the world around us, and its ability to create social change and social justice.

OUR 2014/15 WFI RESEARCH GRANT RECIPIENTS:
For 2014/15, the WFI awarded 7 research grants, totaling roughly $60,000, to support a strong and diverse collection of projects linking communication and social change/social justice.

CALL FOR 2015/16 WFI RESEARCH GRANT APPLICATIONS Our next application deadline for WFI Research Grants is now in place! Applications for 2015/16 WFI Research Grants will be due Tuesday, May 5, 2015.

Communication scholars across the nation, and across the world, are invited to apply for funds to support initial or ongoing phases of scholarly research aimed at presentation and publication. Although we do not limit our grants to a specific methodological orientation or subdisciplinary focus, all projects supported by the WFI have two things in common: they make communication the primary, and not secondary, focus, and they engage communication in terms of its impact on the world around us, its ability to create social change. WFI Research Grants are available to faculty at any institution of higher education, postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, and other doctoral-level scholars. However, eligibility to apply for the WFI grant program is limited to those in Communication or a closely related discipline. Awards are typically in the range of $5,000-10,000, and may be applied to the hiring of graduate assistants, acquisition of resources or equipment, travel, and/or any other appropriate research related expenses. However, these funds may not be used to provide or supplement salaries. For more details on the WFI and this research grant process-including specific information on the grant application requirements, see the WFI website.

Questions concerning eligibility, or the nature of projects supported, please contact the Director of the WFI, Dr. Bryan Crable.

Konosuke Matsushita Memorial Foundation Research Grants Available

The Konosuke Matsushita Memorial Foundation has research grants available.

Two major objectives of the Konosuke Matsushita Memorial Foundation are:
1) to contribute to the society by promoting international understanding and
2) to realize the society where mankind respect and harmonize with nature under the concept — coexistence of Nature and Mankind.
In line with these goals, the Foundation provides funds to research activities in the areas of humanities and social sciences which pertain to above mentioned two objectives. Research activities of social, academic and international needs in the areas of humanities and social sciences which promote international understanding and/or coexistence of Nature and Mankind. Those should contribute to the society by developing personnel with international perspective, establishing international relationships, solving various issues existing between Japan and other countries, and coexistence of Nature and Mankind.
Pioneering research based on creative ideas is especially welcomed.

Eligibility: Students in doctoral course and researchers within five years after finishing doctoral course, who have not received grants from the foundation in the past. There are no restrictions based on nationality, affiliation, or area of residence. Around 40 grants will be awarded. The maximum amount per researcher is 500,000 yen.

Deadline: Application forms must reach the Foundation by May 15, 2015.

If you have any inquires about application, please send E-mail to the Foundation directly.

NEH Creates New “Public Scholar” Grant Program

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) recently announced a new grant opportunity that encourages the publication of nonfiction books that apply serious humanities scholarship to subjects of general interest and appeal.

The new NEH Public Scholar awards support well-researched books in the humanities conceived and written to reach a broad readership. Books supported through this program might present a narrative history, tell the stories of important individuals, analyze significant texts, provide a synthesis of ideas, revive interest in a neglected subject, or examine the latest thinking on a topic. Most importantly, they should open up important and appealing subjects for wider audiences by presenting significant humanities topics in a way that is accessible to general readers.

The NEH Public Scholar program represents a long-term commitment at NEH to encourage scholarship in the humanities for general audiences. The grant program forms part of a new agency-wide initiative, The Common Good: The Humanities in the Public Square, which seeks to demonstrate and enhance the role and significance of the humanities and humanities scholarship in public life.

The Public Scholar program is open to both independent scholars and individuals affiliated with scholarly institutions. It offers a stipend of $4,200 per month for a period of six to twelve months. The maximum stipend is $50,400 for a twelve-month period. Applicants must have previously published a book or monograph with a university or commercial press, or articles and essays that reach a wide readership.

Application guidelines and a list of F.A.Q.’s for the Public Scholar program are available online. The application deadline for the first cycle of Public Scholar grants is March 3, 2015.