Mellon Foundation Grant for Community-Based Archives

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The Mellon Foundation is now accepting applications from community-based archives in the United States and its territories for general operating support through the Public Knowledge program. This funding opportunity aims to empower archives that preserve and celebrate the histories of under-documented communities.

Information & Application Details:

  • Registration Deadline: March 12, 2025
  • Application Deadline: March 28, 2025
  • Submission Notification: May 7, 2025
  • Final Proposal Deadline (if invited): July 7, 2025
  • Final Grant Notification: July 17, 2025

Eligibility:

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be located in the U.S. or its territories.
  • Have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or be a federally recognized Indian tribe.
  • Operate with an annual budget between $12,500 and $1 million.
  • Maintain an active archive that has existed for at least two years.
  • Be standalone archives or organizations with archival initiatives.
  • Universities and K-12 programs are not eligible.

Grant Purpose and Areas of Support:

This grant provides funding for:
  • Operational Costs: Including staffing, space, and utilities.
  • Collections Care: For acquiring new materials, digital and physical storage, and preservation efforts.
  • Programming Activities: Such as events, exhibitions, and initiatives to engage the community.

About Community-Based Archives:

Community-based archives are organizations formed by and for under-documented communities, preserving histories, traditions, and identities often overlooked by mainstream institutions. They combat misinformation, create safe spaces for cultural preservation, and contribute to a more inclusive American narrative. Since 2019, Mellon has awarded nearly $5 million to 46 such archives. Through this renewed initiative, the Foundation will distribute another $5 million over three open calls from 2025 onward.

Application Process:

Step 1: Registration

  • Complete the registration request form by March 12, 2025, 5:00 PM ET.
  • Eligible applicants will receive access to the application form in the Foundation’s Fluxx grantee portal. Step 2: Submit Application
  • Deadline: March 28, 2025, 5:00 PM ET.
  • Applications must include:
  1. A 2-3 page proposal narrative.
  2. CV or resume of the project lead.
  3. Recent Form 990.
  4. Annual operating budgets for 2023 and 2024.
  5. Governance structure document (e.g., board members, staff, volunteers). Step 3: Notification and Final Proposal (if invited)
  • Notification of submission status: May 7, 2025.
  • Final proposal deadline: July 7, 2025.

2025 Grant Details:

  • Grant Amounts: $25,000 to $100,000 for a two-year term.
  • Grant Period: August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027.
  • Additional Opportunities: Representatives from awarded archives will participate in gatherings to share knowledge and strengthen a network of community-based organizations.

Contact and Resources:

For detailed instructions or to sign up for email alerts, visit the Mellon Foundation website or reach out to program staff:

Explore past projects in the Foundation’s grants database to learn more about successful proposals. Empower your community by preserving its stories—apply today!

website: https://www.mellon.org/article/call-for-proposals-community-based-archives-2025

 

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