Deadline: 30-Dec-2025

The American Research Institute of the South Caucasus (ARISC) offers grants to U.S.-Armenian collaborative teams for preserving Armenia’s archaeological and historical heritage. Projects can receive up to $5,000 for initiatives such as restoration, conservation, digitization, exhibitions, and specialist training. Applications are due December 30, 2025, with award notifications in March 2026.

Overview

The ARISC Heritage Preservation Grant supports collaborative projects aimed at conserving and protecting Armenia’s archaeological and historical resources. Funded by private donors, the program encourages meaningful collaboration between U.S. and Armenian principal investigators to ensure proper curation and long-term preservation of artifacts, sites, and manuscripts.

Key Focus Areas

• Restoration of threatened archaeological remains and historical sites

• Stabilization and conservation of monuments

• Long-term protection for archaeological sites

• Curation and permanent exhibition of heritage materials

• Cataloging and digitization of collections for public access

• Enhancement of conservation laboratory facilities

• Advanced training for heritage specialists

Eligibility

• Collaborative teams including at least one U.S. citizen and one Armenian citizen

• All applicants must hold a master’s degree or higher

• Projects must demonstrate true collaboration, capacity-building, and joint work

• Not intended for primary research

• Projects may be conducted on-site in Armenia or remotely with effective collaboration

Funding and Duration

• Grant amount: Up to $5,000

• Duration: Up to 12 months, with possible extensions by approval

• Award checks issued to the U.S.-based collaborator

• Repeat applications allowed two years after completion of prior award

• Eligible expenses: travel, lodging, meals, incidentals, project-related costs

• Ineligible expenses: visa fees, insurance purchases, salaries for PIs

Application Requirements

• Completed application form

• Project statement (up to 1,500 words) detailing goals, methodology, significance, relevance, and collaborative roles

• Supporting illustrative materials

• Detailed work schedule

• Itemized budget with narrative

• CVs for all participants

• Endorsements from relevant Armenian institutions

• Optional remote project proposals must include justification for remote work, collaboration plan, and adherence to safety protocols

Responsibilities of Awardees

• Deliver a talk or workshop in Armenia related to the project

• Acknowledge ARISC in publications or presentations

• Provide proof of citizenship and obtain necessary research permissions

• Secure medical and evacuation insurance

• Submit a final report by August 31, 2027

• Return or donate unused funds or significant equipment with ARISC approval

• Coordinate with the ARISC Resident Director before travel and comply with travel advisories

Evaluation Criteria

• Contribution to preserving Armenia’s heritage

• Promotion of local skills and capacity-building

• Strength and effectiveness of collaborative ties

• Advancement of public understanding of heritage

• Feasibility and clarity for reviewers, including non-specialists

How to Apply

1. Form a U.S.-Armenian collaborative team with relevant expertise

2. Prepare the project statement, budget, schedule, CVs, and institutional endorsements

3. Submit the application via ARISC’s official platform by December 30, 2025

4. Optional: Include remote project plan and justification if applicable

5. Await notification of award in March 2026

Why This Opportunity Matters

This grant strengthens international collaboration in heritage preservation, ensuring Armenia’s archaeological and historical resources are safeguarded for future generations. It supports capacity-building, public engagement, and sustainable conservation practices while fostering strong partnerships between U.S. and Armenian scholars.

For more information, visit ARISC.