The Phillip and Edith Leonian Foundation provides grants to support photography-based programs and projects. The foundation funds initiatives that align with its mission to foster photography through education, professional development, preservation, and exhibitions. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt organizations with 501(c)(3) status or individuals and small organizations that utilize fiscal sponsors. The foundation no longer requires letters of inquiry but encourages applicants to carefully review the application guidelines before submission.
Grants support various photography-related categories, including education programs for K-12 students and adults, professional development opportunities such as workshops, mentorships, fellowships, and artist residencies, as well as projects related to archiving and cataloging photographic collections. Community-focused documentary photography projects with a strong emphasis on collaboration are also eligible. Funding is available for solo or group exhibitions with budgets under $50,000, as well as other photography-related projects, including personal endeavors, awards, and honoraria.
The grant application requires comprehensive documentation, including an IRS determination letter verifying 501(c)(3) status, a mission statement, an organizational history, a board of trustees list with affiliations, and current and previous fiscal year budgets. Applicants must also submit a detailed project description, a well-researched budget with clearly defined funding requests, and a list of secured or potential funders. The résumé of the project director (limited to one or two pages) and relevant photographic materials, press articles, or representative media must also be included.
The foundation accepts digital applications through Submittable.com, requiring applicants to create a login account to apply. Any required non-digital materials can be mailed to the Phillip and Edith Leonian Foundation, ATTN: Judith Lane, at their New York office. Additional downloadable guidelines are available for non-profit organizations and applicants using fiscal sponsors.
The next application deadline is March 15, 2025, with the submission portal opening on January 1, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to ensure they are using the correct application form and to contact the foundation if they have any uncertainties before applying.
