About this foundation

The Poetry Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private nonoperating foundation based in Chicago that advances poetry nationally. Established in 2003 after a major gift from Ruth Lilly, the Foundation operates Poetry magazine and a large digital archive. In 2022 it launched a grantmaking program to provide general operating support to nonprofit poetry organizations, presses, publications, and select literary arts organizations. The Foundation also runs awards, fellowships, a library, and public programs to amplify poets and expand audiences.

Funding focus

Launched in 2022, the grants program provides general operating support to nonprofit poetry organizations, presses, publications, and select literary arts service and membership organizations based in the US and US territories, reflecting the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the field of poetry and fostering sustainability within the literary arts sector.

Grant programs