The Horowitz Foundation provides small, merit-based grants to support dissertation research in the social sciences.
The foundation targets emerging scholars in the advanced stages of their doctoral work with a view to strengthening rigorous, thoughtful scholarship by backing projects with clear policy relevance.
It encourages proposals that demonstrate strong research design, originality and the potential to inform ongoing social debates.
Each year, two additional awards are given to recognise outstanding projects—these are honorary and cannot be applied for separately.
Funding details
Each successful applicant receives $10,000, disbursed in two parts:
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$7,500 at the beginning of the grant period
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$2,500 upon completion
The final instalment is released once the researcher submits proof of dissertation acceptance, a published article based on the study or an invitation to contribute a book chapter.
All grant recipients must acknowledge the Horowitz Foundation in related publications.
Who can apply
Applicants must:
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Be current PhD or DrPH candidates.
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Not yet hold a doctoral degree.
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Have defended their dissertation proposal or received official departmental approval.
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Be enrolled at any accredited university, in any country.
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Have applied previously only if their last submission was before 2023.
How to apply
Applicants must complete an online form that includes:
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Personal and academic details
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Short written responses
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A project overview
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A 750-word project description
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An uploaded CV
Referees must submit recommendation forms directly. All materials must be in English.
Evaluation focuses on feasibility, originality, methodological strength and policy relevance.
Review criteria
Proposals are assessed on overall merit rather than a rigid scoring system.
The foundation prioritises work that is theoretically grounded, empirically strong and practically relevant.
Awards are made to individuals. If the funds must pass through an institution, the institution must waive all overhead charges.
Recipients must keep the Foundation informed about publications arising from their research.
Closing date
Visit the Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy website to apply by December 1.
Explore our Opportunities page for more global research grants.
Summary not available at this time.
