The NEA Research Labs program funds long-term research agendas that include multiple empirical studies and the dissemination of various products or services for promoting public knowledge about the arts and their contributions to American life. Each Lab must include an interdisciplinary team of researchers and requires a confirmed partnership at the time of application between the lead applicant organization and at least one “arts partner” external to the applicant organization. Products or services developed under the award are expected to be of value to arts researchers, arts practitioners, and professionals in sectors such as healthcare, education, and business or management. Funded projects should have national, regional, or field-wide significance.

Projects supported examine the impacts of the arts on health and wellbeing, economic and workforce development, and educational outcomes.

Managing Unit: VPDoR