Applications are now open for the 2025-26 cycle of the NEA Big Read, a national program that offers matching grants of up to $20,000 to support community-wide reading programs.
This year, we’re excited to introduce a new theme: “Our Nature: How Our Physical Environment Can Lead Us to Seek Hope, Courage, and Connection.”
The 22 NEA Big Read books available for programming this cycle explore our relationship with the physical environment, from our cities and farms to our mountains and coastlines.
NEA Big Read At-A-Glance
- What is it? The NEA Big Read is a reading program that brings communities together around the central theme “Our Nature,” using one of 22 available books as inspiration.
- Who can apply? Nonprofit arts organizations, universities, libraries, service organizations, museums, school districts, and tribal governments are all encouraged to apply.
- Where? Your organization must be located and operate within the United States or the Native Nations that share this geography.
- When to apply? A mandatory Intent to Apply is due January 23, 2025, with final applications due January 30, 2025. Funded programs will take place between September 2025 and June 2026.
Read more about eligibility and how to apply in the guidelines.