The Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy: Comprehensive Guide to the 2024–2025 Grant Application Process

The Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy stands as a long‑established supporter of exceptional social policy research, offering competitive grants that empower scholars to pursue innovative, impactful projects. Since 1997, the Foundation has funded research that advances understanding of pressing social issues and contributes meaningfully to policy development. This detailed guide breaks down the full application process, requirements, deadlines, and expectations to help applicants prepare a strong submission.

Overview of the Horowitz Foundation Grant Program

The Foundation provides financial support to emerging and established researchers whose work demonstrates originality, policy relevance, and academic rigor. Each year, applicants from diverse disciplines submit proposals addressing critical social challenges, ranging from inequality and governance to public health, education, and community development.

The grant program is administered entirely through an online portal, ensuring a streamlined and accessible application experience. Award recipients are announced in June each year, following a thorough review process conducted by the Foundation’s board and evaluators.

Application Steps: Full Breakdown

The application process consists of several structured components designed to evaluate both the researcher and the proposed project. Applicants must complete each step carefully to ensure eligibility.

1. Create an Account in the Application Portal

Applicants begin by clicking the Application Form button on the Foundation’s website. This leads to the secure application portal, where users must create an account. The portal allows applicants to save progress, upload documents, and track submission status.

2. Complete All Required Application Sections

The application includes multiple sections, each serving a specific purpose in evaluating the applicant’s qualifications and project potential.

A. Personal Details

This section consists of short‑answer questions that help reviewers understand the applicant’s background, academic trajectory, and motivations. Applicants should provide clear, concise responses that highlight relevant experience and interests.

B. Project Overview

A brief snapshot of the proposed research project. This overview should summarize the core idea, research question, and anticipated contribution to social policy.

C. Full Project Description (750 Words)

This is the most substantial part of the application. Applicants must submit a detailed description of their project, up to 750 words. Strong project descriptions typically include:

• Research question and significance
• Theoretical framework or conceptual foundation
• Methodology and data sources
• Expected outcomes and policy relevance
• Timeline and feasibility

D. Upload Your CV

Applicants must upload a current curriculum vitae that outlines academic achievements, publications, research experience, and other relevant credentials.

E. Provide Contact Information for Recommenders

Applicants must list the contact details of recommenders who will submit formal recommendation forms. These individuals should be familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional work.

3. Review & Submit the Application

Once all sections are complete, applicants must click the Review & Submit button. This final step must be completed on or before the deadline: December 1 at 11:59 PM EST.

The portal allows applicants to review all entries before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.

4. Ensure Recommenders Submit Their Forms

Recommendation forms must also be submitted by December 1 at 11:59 PM EST. Applications with missing recommendations will not be reviewed.

Applicants are encouraged to notify recommenders early and follow up as the deadline approaches.

Additional Important Information

To maintain fairness and consistency, the Foundation enforces several strict guidelines:

• All applications must be submitted through the official online portal.
• All forms and documents must be written in English.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Applications cannot be reviewed if recommendation forms are missing.
• Award winners will be announced in June.
• Applicants can join the Foundation’s email list to receive updates on deadlines, announcements, and opportunities.