Grantmaking FAQs
MacArthur supports people and organizations working to address a variety of complex societal challenges. Our grants are generally long-term, strategic investments, focused on building evidence about what works and finding solutions to often intractable problems. While some foundations work on a small number of issues, MacArthur is a multi-purpose foundation with grantmaking in fields that are often interrelated.
We strive toward transformative change on some of the world's most pressing social issues, including the existential threats of climate change, criminal justice reform, revitalizing local news in the U.S., expanding who creates, uses, and benefits from artificial intelligence, strengthening the well-being of Native communities, and empowering young people in Nigeria. In addition to the MacArthur Fellows Program and 100&Change competition , the Foundation continues its historic commitments to the role of journalism in a responsible and responsive democracy; and to the strength and vitality of our hometown, Chicago . We are also significantly increasing financial capital for the social sector and strengthening research and advocacy about the social impacts of technology.
We generally do not fund unsolicited proposals; however, we do review them. If you are considering submitting a proposal, we recommend that you first carefully read our grant guidelines, which help applicants determine whether their idea for a grant fits one of our grantmaking strategies.
Only the MacArthur Fellows program and the Leaders for a New Chicago award provide grants to individuals. The MacArthur Fellows program does not accept applications. For more information on Leaders for a New Chicago, consult the Field Foundation’s guidelines.
No. We do not provide funding for tuition or scholarships to cover educational expenses.
The length of the review period for a proposal or letter of inquiry can vary depending on the nature of the project. You can expect a response to most letters of inquiry within 30 Days.
No, the Foundation will not seek any personal or bank information other than through our established grant management system. Unfortunately, scams claiming to be from or associated with foundations are growing in volume and, in many cases, can be quite sophisticated. Although MacArthur has not been targeted recently, it is important for the public to know that MacArthur does not:
- Solicit personal information from individuals through letters or other communications or ask you to download files or other attachments in emails or text messages.
- Request administrative fees for awarding a grant.
- Host internet lotteries or offer prizes of any kind through e-mail, postal mail, telephone, fax, or in person.
- Request registration fees for conferences or summits.
- Request information about bank accounts or other private information.
- Have memberships or request fees for memberships.
- Approach individuals in-person offering grant opportunities.
- Solicit donations at any time.
- Offer investment opportunities.
You should ignore any e-mails or other entreaties asking for any such information. MacArthur has a very specific process with our grantees and grant applications that uses secure means of collecting necessary information.
If you have any questions regarding our processes or whether a communication is genuine or wish to report a scam, please contact us.
If you have received one of these scam communications, you may also report it to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI.
