First Book Grant (FBG) — Louisville Institute

About this program

The Louisville Institute's First Book Grant provides up to $55,000 (USD) to fund research leave during the 2027–2028 academic year (or 2028 calendar year) for early‑career scholars completing a first (or, if required for tenure, a second) book on Christian faith and practice in the United States or Canada, with priority for projects that bridge church and academy and address social history, migration, and cultural difference. Applicants must hold a terminal research degree (e.g., Ph.D./Th.D.), be pre‑tenure full‑time faculty in tenure‑track or renewable contract positions at accredited seminaries, theological schools, colleges, or universities in the U.S. or Canada, and be able to negotiate release time equivalent to a full academic year; doctoral students are ineligible. Applications are due January 15, 2027 (recommender letters due January 22), awards announced April 2027, and grantees are required to attend the January 2028 Winter Seminar; funds commonly cover salary/benefit replacement.