Acton Institute Calihan Academic Grant

About this scholarship

The Calihan Academic Grant is an Acton Institute research and conference-travel award for scholars and graduate students working where theology and the principles of a free and virtuous society intersect. Eligible disciplines include theology, philosophy, religion, history, law, politics, economics, and related fields. Awards are typically up to $1,000 and may fund research activity or travel to present a paper at an academic conference. The sponsor reviews applications quarterly as funding permits and states that the current Quarter 3 period is open; it does not publish a single May 1 deadline or a $100,000 individual award. Those larger figures attached to the umbrella “Acton Academic Grants and Awards” listing are therefore not copied. Selection emphasizes strong academic performance, demonstrated interest in Acton’s themes, and the potential to advance understanding of human dignity, rule of law, limited government, religious liberty, economic freedom, humanities, and culture. A complete submission includes a one-page project proposal, a two-page essay describing intellectual development and career plans, a recent academic paper relevant to the themes, and a recent university transcript. A non-English paper must include an English abstract or summary. The award is supplemental, competitive, and nonrenewable, but unsuccessful or previous applicants may apply again after one calendar year. Receiving a grant does not guarantee a travel visa.

Eligibility

• Be a scholar or graduate student in an eligible or closely related academic field
• Demonstrate strong academic performance
• Show sustained interest in the themes of the Acton Institute
• Propose research or conference travel that can advance those themes
• Submit a one-page project proposal and two-page intellectual and career statement
• Submit a relevant recent academic paper and university transcript
• Provide all materials in English or include an English abstract for a non-English paper