The Terra Foundation for American Art actively supports projects that encourage international scholarship on American art topics, as well as scholarly projects with focused theses that further research of American art in an international context. Academic program funding is available for in-person exchanges such as workshops, symposia, and colloquia that advance scholarship in the field of American art (circa 1500–1980) that take place:

In Chicago or outside the United States, or
In the United States and examine American art within an international context, with at least half of the participants coming from outside the United States.
Additionally, the foundation welcomes applications for international research groups. Such groups should involve 2 to 4 faculty members from two or more academic institutions, at least one of which must be located outside the United States. Groups should pursue specific research questions that will advance scholarship and meet in person two or more times.

Visual arts that are eligible for Terra Foundation Academic Workshop and Symposium Grants include all visual art categories except architecture and commercial film/animation. We favor programs that place objects and practices in an art historical perspective.

NOTE: The foundation funds museum-organized educational programs related to exhibitions through its Exhibition Grants; therefore only organizers from universities and research institutes may apply for exhibition-related programs through the Academic Program area.

Within a given year, the foundation seeks to support a range of topics. Academic Program grants for conferences, symposia, and workshops do not exceed $25,000 unless there are unusual circumstances. For Terra consideration, at least one-third of the program must focus on pre-1980 art of the United States, and award level may be commensurate with the degree of focus. The Terra Foundation prefers not to be the sole contributor to an event. No more than 15% of a Terra Foundation grant may be applied to indirect costs.

While the Terra Foundation for American Art welcomes recurring requests, organizations that have submitted multiple applications should note that the foundation also attempts to fund programs at a variety of organizations. Due to the competitive nature of this program area, not every request can be funded, regardless of prior support.

Summer 2020 Awards
For programs taking place after September 1, 2020:

Letter of Inquiry: December 6, 2019
Proposal: March 6, 2020

Fall 2020 Awards
For programs taking place after January 1, 2021:

Letter of Inquiry: March 16, 2020
Proposal: June 15, 2020

Summer 2021 Awards
For programs taking place after September 1, 2021:

Letter of Inquiry: December 4, 2020
Proposal: March 5, 2021

Please visit the 'External Link' below for more information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply.