Funding the Documentation and Revitalization of Endangered Languages

Abstract

The funding of documentation and revitalization projects within the field of endangered languages can be challenging. There are few, but significant, sources that are directed toward this effort worldwide. For this chapter, two potential audiences are recognized: (1) those who may be seeking funding for the first time and could use some general guidelines to get started and (2) those who may have had previous funding but need to think about some new ways to expand on it. In either case, it is good to be mindful of the basics of good grant writing. This chapter offers some general guidelines and some specific strategies to help researchers and community members alike strategize their funding efforts. The chapter concludes with an appeal for more language activism aimed at encouraging more funding for endangered languages worldwide.