Research Fellows are invited to participate in enhancing the field of philanthropy research focused on communities in the rural United States. The goals of the Rural Philanthropy Institute Research Fellowship are to learn more about the role of the nonprofit sector in rural America, identify pertinent data and stories that contribute to the understanding of this field, and support and encourage scholars interested in this research. RPI looks to support and promote research findings that improve, enhance, and expand the understanding of philanthropy in rural America.
Graduate students, doctoral candidates, post-doctoral, and faculty members are encouraged to apply.
Graduate or doctoral student applicants must have a faculty mentor located at their institution.
Examples of eligible research projects might include:
Research on nonprofit organizations in rural areas including studies focusing on capacity, impact, functions, and innovative fundraising strategies including case studies on philanthropy in rural areas and their outcomes.
Research on the rural nonprofit sector and minority communities including traditionally underserved communities of color, immigrant communities, and LGBTQ communities.
Investigation into the role of rural religious congregations in philanthropy and the effect of churches and religious centers on the health of the rural nonprofit sector.
Impact of the nonprofit sector on rural economies
The history of philanthropy in rural America
Length of Fellowship: 1 year
Funding Award: $5000
Award not to be used to reduce institutional assistance to awardees or substitute for compensation earned through graduate placements or assistantships.
Full Application can be found here Link to Application PDF