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Content Type: NEA Big Read

  • Hands holding a pile of coins and a sprout

    7 Tips to Level Up Your Grant Writing Game

    Easy ways to improve your skills at grant writing–and increase the likelihood that your proposal will be accepted!

  • An older woman with white hair, red glasses, and a white dress, shows a young boy in a black shirt a snake. The snake is wrapped around her wrist and is red and brown and black.

    5 Tips for Combining Nature and Your NEA Big Read Programming

    The NEA Big Read program in 2025-2026 invites you to explore the theme of Our Nature. These suggestions for expanding programming to include nature will inspire you to craft a captivating project.

  • A giant wooden troll leans against a tree

    Is Anybody Out There? Tips for Reaching Rural Audiences

    Rural areas offer both unique opportunities and challenges when it comes to reaching people. Discover how Detroit Lakes, Minnesota became home to the world’s largest exhibition of Thomas Dambo's trolls by engaging local audiences.

  • Two people of medium dark skin tone sit in pink wingback chairs against a blue velvet background.

    Navigating Author Contracts for NEA Big Read Grantees

    Engaging the author of your NEA Big Read book can transform your programming. Explore tips, success stories, and creative solutions for securing memorable author visits and community involvement.

  • A group of people sitting in wooden chairs arranged in a circle.

    How—and Why—to Facilitate a Story Circle

    Story circles, a tool developed by rural grassroots theater makers and organizers, make it possible for people to share their experiences and discover–often to their surprise–how much they actually have in common. Here’s how it’s done.

  • A person with darker skin and a colorful red jacket speaks on a mic in front of a crowd

    Tips and Tricks for Running Large, Multi-Partner Projects

    Large-scale projects that involve multiple contributors require thoughtful planning to avoid becoming overwhelming. Learn some tips and tricks from the Wichita Public Library, a long-time NEA Big Read grantee.

  • A group of high school students hold script papers in a black box theater.

    Best Practices for Federal Grant Applications

    Federal funding for the arts is available but not always the most accessible, especially if you've never applied for opportunities in the past. This article provides a basic eligibility roadmap for non-profit organizations that are new to seeking federal funding.

  • Close up of pens, pencils and markers grouped together in rubberbands.

    Event Planning 101

    Planning a big event, and want to make sure you can accomplish your goals? Let this resource guide you through the do’s and don’ts, including getting organized, engaging your community, communicating clearly, and caring for yourself!

  • A row of school buses parked in a snowy parking lot under a cloudy blue sky.

    Creating Partnerships with Schools and School Districts

    Interested in exploring ways to partner with local schools on your programming? Unsure where to start? Working with such institutions can sometimes be complicated and marred by red tape. This resource will help you navigate the challenges and provide tips for working with school districts in your area in order to create dynamic programming for students.