The Whiting Foundation (whiting.org) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Nonfiction Grants for Works-in-Progress. These grants of $40,000 are awarded to writers in the process of completing a creative and deeply researched work of nonfiction. Projects must be under contract with a publisher located in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada.
Since 2016, more than 80 writers have received these grants, which are designed to encourage original and ambitious projects by giving recipients the means to pursue research and devote time to composition. Successful applicants are at a crucial point mid-process, after significant work has been completed but when extra support can make a difference in the ultimate shape and quality of the work.
The Whiting Foundation welcomes applications for works of history, cultural or political reportage, biography, memoir, science, philosophy, criticism, graphic nonfiction, and personal essays, among other categories. Self-help titles, historical fiction, textbooks, books primarily for a scholarly audience, and books for young readers are not eligible.
The deadline for applications has been extended; Applications are now due by May 31, 2026. For a full list of application requirements, a list of previous winners, and to apply, please visit whiting.org/writers/creative-nonfiction-grant/about. The application can be accessed directly here.
Any questions regarding applications should be directed to info@whiting.org.