The Community Action Research Initiative (CARI) Grants

The Community Action Research Initiative (CARI) Grants, administered by the American Sociological Association (ASA), aim to support sociologists who collaborate with community organizations to address pressing social issues. These grants facilitate the application of sociological research methods and knowledge in real-world, community-based settings. CARI projects are designed to bridge academic research and practical community solutions, enhancing both sociological understanding and tangible community outcomes. CARI grants offer up to $3,000 to cover direct project costs. However, funds may not be used for institutional overhead, conference expenses, or salaries for the principal investigator. The grants are accessible to sociologists from diverse professional backgrounds including academia, nonprofits, government agencies, and research institutions. While graduate students are eligible to apply, the grant does not support dissertation research. ASA membership is not required to apply, but recipients must be members in good standing prior to receiving the award and are expected to comply with the ASA Code of Ethics and, when applicable, provide IRB approval documentation. The 2024 application deadline is August 29, at 5:00 p.m. ET, and decisions will be announced by December 2. Applicants must submit their materials online via ASA’s Foundant grant platform. Required documents include contact information, project title, three narrative sections (each limited to 500 words) detailing project goals and methodology, the community partner organization, and expected outcomes and dissemination plans. Additional required documents include a letter of support from the partner organization, a CV for each principal investigator, and a detailed budget and timeline. This funding opportunity emphasizes collaboration, community impact, and the sociological relevance of the work. Grantees are expected to produce outcomes that can be shared with both academic and community audiences, though dissemination does not need to occur during the grant period. For questions, applicants are encouraged to contact Heather M. Washington at hwashington@asanet.org. More information and the application portal can be accessed via the ASA website.