West Virginia Humanities Minigrants

The West Virginia Humanities Council offers Minigrants to support small-scale humanities projects that engage public audiences across the state. As part of its broader mission to foster public understanding of the humanities, these grants are designed for nonprofit organizations planning single events or short-term projects that do not require the level of funding or complexity associated with larger programs. Minigrants are available in four annual cycles with deadlines on February 1, April 1, June 1, and October 1. Awards are capped at $2,000, and applicants must allow a minimum of six weeks between the application deadline and the start date of their project. The program is open to West Virginia-based nonprofit organizations that make a substantive contribution to the project content, rather than acting solely as fiscal agents. Eligible project types include public lectures, workshops, single-day events, brochures, museum exhibits, and consultations or planning efforts that may lead to larger initiatives. Projects must have strong humanities content and incorporate qualified scholars who contribute to research, planning, and delivery. All funded activities must be open and accessible to public audiences and aligned with federal nondiscrimination standards. Applicants must demonstrate a 1:1 match for requested funds. For grants over $2,000, which are not possible under this program, a 25% cash match would typically apply, but this does not pertain here. Allowable expenses include honoraria, materials, travel, printing, and rentals related to the project. Funds cannot be used for entertainment, equipment purchases, or costs incurred prior to award. A detailed narrative, schedule, budget, and evaluation plan must be submitted with each application. Projects previously funded by Minigrants include author-led workshops at Daniels Elementary School in Raleigh County, the Wayne County quilt trail, and a permanent exhibit at the Entler Hotel museum in Shepherdstown. All applications must be submitted via the Council’s online Formstack portal. The CEO of the sponsoring organization must certify compliance with grant rules, and successful applicants must be registered in SAM.gov with a UEI, DUNS, and FEIN. Minigrants are recurring and provide a streamlined way for smaller projects to obtain support while demonstrating public value and scholarly substance. Organizations are encouraged to plan applications in accordance with the nearest deadline and ensure they meet all eligibility and match requirements prior to submission.

Plan projects to start no sooner than six weeks after deadline. Ensure that scholar participation and humanities relevance are clearly articulated. Keep the scope realistic for small-scale funding.