Binc and Penguin Random House Launch “Indies With Impact” Grant Program

Printer-friendly versionPrinter-friendly version

The Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc) and Penguin Random House are partnering to launch “Indies With Impact,” a new grant program that will award two independent bookstores working in tandem with a community nonprofit or organization.

Binc logoEach winning bookstore will be awarded a grant to further their work with a local nonprofit or organization of their choice, including local schools and libraries, on programs that strengthen the local community and encourage a passion for reading. Bookstores that apply should be involved in projects and partnerships that focus strongly on community needs and the bookstore’s values and mission. 

Applications will be accepted March 1 – May 1, 2019, and again during this same period in 2020; a total of $3,000 will be awarded over the two years. According to Binc and PRH, the grant was created to recognize, support, and strengthen the already robust connections bookstores have with their communities.

“We all know the vital role independent bookstores play in our local communities,” said President of Sales for Penguin Random House U.S. Jaci Updike. “Through this new exciting partnership with Binc, we are able to go further in support of the books we publish and the booksellers who sell them, as we strive to enhance community engagement at a grassroots level.”

To be eligible, a bookstore must be either a U.S. retail brick-and-mortar store with a substantial portion of its revenue derived from the sale of books, or a mobile or pop-up bookstore that is open to the general public and maintains an annual average of 30 hours per week with a bookseller present.

“This unique collaboration with Penguin Random House will give two bookstores the funds to launch fantastic community programs,” said Binc Executive Director Pam French. “The review committee is looking forward to reading the wonderful projects booksellers propose.”

To apply for an Indies With Impact grant, visit Submittable. Applications are due by May 1.