Our Approach to Grantmaking

Our Purpose

Sir John Templeton established the John Templeton Foundation to make a difference in the world by funding innovative research (including in under-explored areas of work) and by publicizing information about this research to generate more enthusiasm among scholars, practitioners and other funders for new ideas and perspectives.

Our Approach

Our approach to grant making starts with Sir John’s philanthropic vision, is based on his guidance for how to make grants and is animated by the new insights and perspectives that applicants submit to the Foundation for consideration year after year.

Our Funding Areas

The John Templeton Foundation organizes grant making in distinct funding areas. We prioritize funding for initial projects lasting up to three years and projects that include substantial funding from other sources. In general, renewal or follow-up funding is possible only if the project proposal includes a detailed plan for covering more than 50% of project costs through other funding sources. Project leaders who may wish to apply for a second round of funding are encouraged to incorporate plans for raising co-funding into their first project.

The Application Process

Most of our grant making activity takes place through an open submission process. Applicants from all over the world are invited to submit ideas to the Foundation. We review every Online Funding Inquiry (typically due in August) and select projects that align with our mission and current funding priorities. From time to time, we run funding competitions and launch special, large-scale initiatives, which are often developed in collaboration with the team at the John Templeton Foundation.

Explore our funding areas