NAP Scholarship 2026: Up to $1,500 for Archivists of African Descent
Applications for the NAP Scholarship 2026 are now open. This fully funded opportunity offers up to $1,500 to archivists of African descent. It supports students in archival studies, early-career archivists, and independent archivists. The funds can cover attendance at the Society of American Archivists (SAA) Annual Conference or help start a community archival project. The deadline is March 31, 2026. This scholarship advances careers and helps preserve community memory. This article covers details, eligibility, and how to apply.
The NAP Scholarship removes financial barriers to professional development. It targets students in archival studies, early-career archivists, and independent archivists of African descent. Recipients can use the money to attend the SAA Annual Conference or fund projects that preserve community memory and knowledge. The program builds inclusive archival practices by supporting diverse voices in the field.
Here are its main goals:
- Increase access to professional networks
- Support skill development and education
- Enable community-centered archival projects
- Promote representation in archival institutions
Financial hurdles often block archivists from key opportunities. Conferences, training, and projects cost money that many emerging professionals lack. The NAP Scholarship tackles this by opening doors to networks, skills, and projects. It pushes for equity in the field.
Access to information and opportunities is essential for equity in the archival field.
The scholarship offers flexible funding for various needs. Recipients decide how to use it based on their goals.
| Expense Category | Examples | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Conference fees | SAA Annual Conference registration | Lets you join top events and learn |
| Travel and lodging | Flights, hotels | Makes attendance possible from afar |
| Professional memberships | Archival organization dues | Builds long-term connections |
| Training programs | Workshops, online courses | Sharpens skills for career growth |
| Supplies and materials | Archival tools, project items | Supports hands-on preservation work |
| Project time | Time for development | Frees focus for community impact |
The Nomadic Archivists Project (NAP) believes archivists shape historical narratives. They preserve voices from the margins. This scholarship empowers archivists of African descent around the world. It fosters community-driven practices and ethical documentation. It also boosts involvement in SAA spaces, where people share research, build networks, take leadership roles, and attend workshops.
To qualify, applicants must fit certain rules. They need to be current undergraduate or graduate students, or independent archivists. They must be of African descent, show commitment to an archives career, and prove financial need.
- Current undergraduate or graduate student, or independent archivist
- Of African descent
- Committed to a career in archives
- Clear financial need
The application calls for specific items. Start with a 500-750 word essay. It should cover your interest in archival work or detail a proposed project. Include a resume and a professional headshot. If you seek project funding, add a detailed budget for supplies, travel, or production costs.
- 500-750 word essay on interest in archival work or proposed project
- Resume
- Professional headshot
- Detailed budget (required for project funding only)
Submit everything by email to [email protected]. Contact Miranda Mims at the same address for questions on eligibility or process. Make sure all documents are complete and clear.
Key Action Items:
Email: [email protected]
Deadline: March 31, 2026
This scholarship does more than provide cash. It advances careers in archival studies. It funds projects and connects you with leaders. You help preserve underrepresented histories. For those tied to community memory and social justice, it marks real progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the NAP Scholarship 2026?
Current undergraduate or graduate students, early-career archivists, or independent archivists of African descent with a commitment to archives and financial need.
What can the scholarship funds be used for?
Funds support SAA Annual Conference attendance, travel, memberships, training, supplies, or community archival projects.
What does the application require?
A 500-750 word essay on your archival interest or project, resume, professional headshot, and a detailed budget for project funding.
When is the deadline and how do I submit?
The deadline is March 31, 2026; email all documents to [email protected].