Golden Trowel Award Grant

Golden Trowel Award Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Archaeological Institute of America
Last Updated: October 14, 2025

Summary

The Golden Trowel Award, presented by the Archaeological Institute of America, recognizes the local society with the highest proportional membership increase over the past year. This prestigious award highlights the vital role that local societies play in promoting archaeology and supporting the AIA's mission. By fostering community engagement and growth, the award encourages societies to enhance their programs and initiatives, ultimately enriching the field of archaeology.

Overview

The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) is the world's oldest and largest archaeological organization. The AIA is a nonprofit founded in 1879 and chartered by the United States Congress in 1906. We have members in more than 100 Local Societies in the United States, Canada, and overseas. These members include professional archaeologists, students, and enthusiasts, all united by their passion for archaeology and its role in furthering human knowledge. Society Grants & Awards Each year the Archaeological Institute of America presents awards to our societies and their members in recognition of the important work they do to support the Institute and its mission. Our over 100 Local Societies are the backbone of the AIA and their work is irreplaceable. Winners of these awards and prizes are honored at the Annual Meeting. Golden Trowel Award Local Societies need membership in order to host lectures and create other programs and in recent years the AIA has established some incentives to help Societies grow. The Golden Trowel Award honors the Society whose membership proportionally increases the most during the past fiscal year (July 1st to June 30th).

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website.