The Polylog Foundation announces a grant competition for the preparation of popular science books on the history of Russian philanthropy, titled “Patrons of Russia: The Origins of Philanthropy”

The “Polylog” Foundation Announces a Grant Competition for the Preparation of Popular Science Books on the History of Russian Philanthropy: “Philanthropists of Russia: The Origins of Charity”

April 22, 2026 – Moscow. The Polylog Foundation for the Development of Interethnic Relations has announced the launch of a grant competition for the preparation and publication of popular science books dedicated to the history of Russian patronage.

The initiative aims to support authors capable of creating, based on scientific research and archival materials, in-depth, reliable, yet accessible to a wide readership books on the historical phenomenon of Russian patronage, its interpenetrating influence on the development of Russia’s multinational society, and the diverse cultures, religions, and worldviews as a space for mutual spiritual enrichment.

Professional historians—researchers with specialized education or engaged in scholarly work in the field of history, as well as those with published works, including books, on related topics—are invited to participate. An important requirement is not only academic competence but also the potential author’s demonstrated interest in the topic of patronage and the ability to contextualize it within a broad cultural and social framework.

The grant provides funding for the preparation and publication of the three best works, with prize money distributed as follows:

·1st place – 500,000 rubles
·2nd place – 350,000 rubles
·3rd place – 250,000 rubles.

Winners will be selected by a competition committee based on a comprehensive evaluation of the applications.

Key selection criteria include:
— the author’s professional experience and qualifications, as evidenced by academic work and publications;
— the depth and thoroughness of the concept for the future publication (abstracts);
— the originality of the academic approach and the novelty of the research material;
— the author’s ability to work with archival sources and interpret them without distortion;
— the expressiveness of the author’s style and skill in presenting complex historical topics in an accessible manner;
— a balance between scholarly rigor and accessibility to a broad audience;
— the future book’s potential for social and cultural impact.

To participate in the competition, applicants must submit an application via the link by July 30, 2026. As part of the application, applicants must provide links or files to previously published scholarly works and/or books, as well as a free-form abstract of the future work of up to 4,000 characters.

The selection committee will review applications from August 1 to September 15, 2026. The results of the competition will be published on September 16, 2026, on the Foundation’s official website. Contracts with the winners are scheduled to be signed by October 15, 2026. The deadlines for preparing and submitting manuscripts will be determined individually with each grant recipient.

The Polylog Foundation implements projects aimed at developing interethnic dialogue, supporting cultural and educational initiatives, as well as preserving historical heritage and strengthening humanitarian ties. The grant announcement took place during a special screening of the feature film “Oil,” dedicated to the outstanding Azerbaijani patron and pioneer of the oil industry, Haji Taghiyev. Both this screening and the grant competition announced during it—for the preparation of popular science books on the history of Russian patronage titled “Patronage in Russia: The Origins of Philanthropy”—are timed to coincide with the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, declared by Decree of President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for2026.

“Philanthropy is not merely about supporting the arts or science. It is a profound, far-reaching process that shapes society’s worldview, spirit, and faith. Without it, it is difficult to imagine a country’s full life or the life of each of its citizens. This concept is deeply rooted in our history—in the lives of outstanding individuals and in the deeds of those who gave from the heart. To study this priceless heritage, to reflect on it, to give readers the opportunity to experience it, and to open the spirit of philanthropy to every caring person—I consider this my important mission today,” noted Ramil Kerimov, head of the Polylog Foundation.