What's Happening?
A coalition of seven foundations, including the Mellon, Ford, MacArthur, Hawthornden, Lannan, and Poetry foundations, along with an anonymous foundation, has launched the Literary Arts Fund. This initiative
aims to dramatically increase funding and visibility for literary arts nonprofits, with a commitment to distribute at least $50 million over the next five years. The fund was initiated by the Mellon Foundation and seeks to enhance the work of existing nonprofit organizations and publishers, while also increasing the visibility and understanding of the literary arts field. The fund will announce its first annual open call for general operating grants on November 10, 2025.
Why It's Important?
The establishment of the Literary Arts Fund addresses the chronic underfunding of the literary arts sector, which has historically received less philanthropic support compared to other artistic fields. By providing substantial financial backing, the fund aims to strengthen the infrastructure of literary organizations and nonprofits, enabling them to better serve literary artists and communities. This initiative not only supports the creative expression of writers but also fosters community engagement and cultural enrichment. The fund's launch represents a significant step towards ensuring the sustainability and growth of the literary arts ecosystem in the U.S.
What's Next?
The Literary Arts Fund will hold open calls for general operating grants starting November 10, 2025, and innovation project grants tentatively on June 26. An information session about both grants is scheduled for November 13, 2025. The fund aims to encourage more financial support for the literary arts and increase the visibility of the field, potentially leading to broader philanthropic interest and collaboration among funders.
