While genealogical research is rewarding in itself, it is always nice to receive a little financial support for your endeavors. To this end, a number of genealogical scholarships, awards, grants and fellowships are available to help applicants hoping to attend a genealogical conference or institute, to honor excellence in genealogical writing or research, or to support research projects of benefit to the genealogical community. Be sure to check the deadlines, rules and qualifications for each opportunity, but don't be afraid to apply!
1. National Genealogical Society Writing Competitions
The National Genealogical Society offers a number of writing awards each year:- Family History Writing Contest
- Award for Excellence: Genealogy and Family History Book
- Award for Excellence: Genealogical Methods and Sources
Deadline: 31 January
2. American Society of Genealogists Award
An annual $500 scholarship toward tuition and expenses at either the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (Samford) or the National Institute on Genealogical Research (Washington, D.C.) is awarded by the American Society of Genealogists. Applicants must submit a resume, a 5,000+ word manuscript or published work demonstrating quality genealogical research, and a brief statement.Deadline: 15 January *extended to 15 March for 2008
3. ISFHWE Excellence in Writing Competition
An annual competition sponsored by the International Society of Family History Writers and Editors was begun in 1989 to encourage high standards in genealogy journalism. Entries are accepted in four categories, from content written/published the previous year:- Newspaper Columns
- Published Articles
- Original Research Story
- Want-to-Be Writer/Columnist
Deadline: 15 February
4. Brian W. Hutchison Genealogical Scholarship
The Alberta Family History Society awards an annual genealogical scholarship of up to $500 to a Canadian resident for study in the field of genealogy and family history in a recognized educational or accreditation/certification program. Funded by an endowment from Brian W. Hutchison, CG, FSA (Scot), principal of GEN-FIND Research Associates, Inc.Deadline: 31 December
5. NGS Newsletter Competition
This annual competition recognizes outstanding newsletters published by genealogical or historical society or association. Applicants must be a NGS member organization.Deadline: 31 December
6. The Filby Prize for Genealogical Librarianship
Named for the late P. William Filby, the Filby Prize is awarded annually to a librarian with at least five years experience whose primary focus is genealogy and local history. Entries for this prestigious award are by nomination, and the annual winner is awarded a $1000.Deadline: 31 January
7. NGS Home Study Course Scholarship Award
An scholarship which covers the complete cost of the NGS American Genealogy: A Home Study Course (approximately $475 value) is awarded annually to a deserving individual. Application is by essay and preference is given to individuals "who have demonstrated serious interest in genealogy by attending regional and/or local conferences, undertaking genealogical training, and subscribing to genealogical publications." Applicants must be an NGS member.Deadline: 31 January
8. Rubincam Youth Award
Established in 1986 to honor Milton Rubincam, CG, FASG, FNGS, the Rubincam Youth Award is given annually to a student in two age categories for a prepared genealogy. The award winner in the Junior category (grades 7-9) receives a plaque, the NGS Home Study Course and a one-year NGS membership. The Senior Award winner (grades 10-12) receives a $500 cash prize, the NGS Home Study course and a one-year NGS membership. Winning submissions may appear in the NGS NewsMagazine.Deadline: 31 January
9. Jewish Genealogy Month Poster Contest
The International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS) sponsors an annual creative poster competition for Jewish Genealogy Month (previously sponsored by Avotaynu). Only member organizations of the IAJGS may submit entries, which may be created by either members or non-members of that organization. The winning poster/flyer will be unveiled at the annual IAJGS International Conference on Jewish Genealogy and the artist creating the winning entry will receive free registration for the conference.Deadline: 1 April
10. Donald Mosher Award for Colonial Virginia Research
This annual $500 award honors scholarship in research on Colonial Virginia topics. Entries may either be an unpublished family genealogy, a study of Virginia immigrant origins, or a publication plan for a project that will make available Virginia records from the 17th or 18th centuries.Deadline: 20 Feburary 2008
