The Program Mini Grants, offered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH), support small-scale public humanities projects that explore the unique history, culture, and traditions of Louisiana. The grants are designed to provide an entry point for organizations seeking to expand into public programming, especially those reaching rural or underserved populations. Applications are open through July 31, 2025, with awards distributed quarterly in January, April, and August. Funded activities must occur within six months of award notification.
Eligible applicants include humanities-focused nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, public-facing organizations at accredited institutions, state and local government agencies, and Native American tribal governments in Louisiana. Organizations must demonstrate a 1:1 cost share (cash or in-kind) and involve qualified humanities scholars in their programs. Examples of eligible project formats include lectures, film viewings with scholar-led discussions, author talks, and panel discussions. Allowable expenses include scholar honoraria, materials, technical support, and publicity, with payments issued up to 45 days after award signing.
The grant emphasizes balanced viewpoints and aims to engage public audiences rather than scholarly communities. LEH encourages projects reaching underserved populations, such as incarcerated individuals or veterans, while maintaining broad public impact. Programs must be free and open to the public, focusing on the humanities as defined by disciplines like history, literature, philosophy, and the social sciences.
Certain activities, such as creative arts, operational staffing, scholarships, and construction projects, are ineligible for funding. Applicants must provide documentation, including federal tax identification, a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and nonprofit determination letters or equivalent forms. Projects must also adhere to guidelines promoting balanced viewpoints and avoiding advocacy.
For more information, prospective applicants can contact Chris Robert at robert@leh.org or (504) 620-2639. This grant program offers a significant opportunity to engage local audiences with Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage while fostering public dialogue and understanding.
