Silvers Grants for Work in Progress

The Silvers Grants for Work in Progress are awarded by The Silvers Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering and supporting excellence in nonfiction writing, particularly in the realms of arts, criticism, politics, and journalism. The Foundation was established in honor of Robert B. Silvers, long-time editor of *The New York Review of Books*, and reflects his legacy of nurturing critical and independent voices in the public discourse. In alignment with this mission, the 2026 Silvers Grants support individual writers pursuing long-form nonfiction projects that engage meaningfully with contemporary issues and cultural commentary. The 2026 round of Silvers Grants offers individual awards of up to $10,000 to eligible writers producing work in four core genres: literary criticism, arts writing, political analysis, and social reportage. The funding is intended to support the development of long-form written works that are already under contract with a publication or publishing house. Notably, the grant does not support works of fiction or translation, ensuring that its focus remains on nonfiction narrative and critical writing. This restriction is consistent with the Foundation’s goal to deepen public understanding through analytical and fact-based writing. To be considered for a 2026 Silvers Grant, applicants must submit a complete application package in PDF format by 11:59 PM EST on March 31, 2026. The application must include a curriculum vitae, a one-page description of the project, a writing sample of between 500 and 2,000 words, proof of a publishing agreement, and full responses to a financial questionnaire. The writing sample may be drawn from the proposed work or from previously published material. The publishing agreement must be demonstrated via a formal contract, an editor’s written statement, or other communications clearly indicating publication intent. Priority in funding decisions is given to applicants who have not received a significant book advance for their work. As part of the financial questionnaire, applicants are expected to disclose all expected costs and any additional sources of support, including advances already received. This helps the Foundation direct support toward projects with limited existing financial backing, consistent with its mission to provide meaningful support to independent writers. Successful applicants will be notified in the first week of August 2026. The grant does not involve additional stages such as interviews or concept papers—decisions are made based on the written application materials. Applicants or interested parties may direct inquiries to the Foundation via email at [email protected]. There is no indication that the program operates on a recurring annual cycle, and no future application windows have been announced at this time.