British Academy Book Prize secures new funding from Hawthornden and Ford Foundations

The British Academy Book Prize – which rewards ground-breaking works of non-fiction from around the world that deepen understanding of people, societies and cultures – has secured new funding from two major philanthropic organisations.

Hawthornden Foundation, a private charitable organisation that backs contemporary writers and the literary arts, has renewed its backing of the British Academy Book Prize with a further three-year commitment, following an initial grant in 2024. The British Academy, the national academy for the humanities and social sciences, has also secured a new two-year grant from the Ford Foundation, an international organisation working with visionaries on the frontlines of social change worldwide.

Both grants – which together total $310,000 – will enable the £25,000 international prize to deliver on its ambition to support excellence in research-based non-fiction, promote the subjects of the humanities and social sciences, and spark international dialogue and exchange around global cultural issues.

The British Academy will use the grants to support a range of initiatives aimed at both continuing existing activities, as well as expanding the reach of the Prize and engaging with the culturally curious reading public, through collaborations with bookshops, an expanded programme of literary festival events, and enhanced digital engagement.

Jo Hopkins, Director of Development at the British Academy, comments:

“We are delighted to have the continued philanthropic support of Hawthornden Foundation and to welcome the Ford Foundation as a new funding partner. The British Academy Book Prize is one of the key ways we highlight the importance of the humanities and social sciences to society, and demonstrate how they can help us to better understand the world around us. In our 13th year, these generous gifts will help us to support writers, engage with more readers, and continue the Academy’s purpose — to deepen and share understanding of people, societies and cultures.”

Ellyn Toscano, Executive Director of Hawthornden Foundation said:

“We are proud to continue our support of the British Academy Book Prize and its dedication to recognising exceptional works of non-fiction underpinned by rigorous research. We firmly believe in the transformative power of literature to broaden perspectives and foster greater cultural and societal understanding. We commend the British Academy for its ongoing efforts to support authors and promote meaningful engagement with the humanities and social sciences.”

The 2025 shortlist of six books will be announced on Tuesday 9 September, and the winner on Wednesday 22 October.

For further information about the Prize visit the British Academy website.

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