Mars, Incorporated announced Monday that it is currently accepting submissions for its 2024 Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant through October 28, 2023.
The grant provides funding for innovation in the areas of chocolate history research, cocoa science, scholarship and education.
Created in 2013, the Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant has awarded 51 grants totaling over $500,000 to historical, educational, civic and community organizations since its inception. Grant funded programs and exhibits have been experienced by thousands of people across North America.
“For 11 years, the Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant has funded over 50 innovative research and educational programs and experiences,” said Kelly Lynch, Director: Brand & Experience, Mars Wrigley Premium Brands. “This diverse group of recipients have uncovered previously unknown stories and facts about chocolate’s rich history and educated thousands of people about its impact on our nation and the world around us. We are honored to continue to fund these exciting and inspiring projects.”
Through its rich history and global impact, it is chocolate’s ability to inspire new research, uncover untold stories and connect past and present that inspires the grant. Submissions can be made on the AMERICAN HERITAGE® Chocolate website at https://www.americanheritagechocolate.com/grants/grant-application/.
AMERICAN HERITAGE Chocolate is a line of artisanal chocolate products developed from ingredients that date as far back as 1750. Developed by Mars, AMERICAN HERITAGE Chocolate helps illuminate the stories of our collective history. From chocolate’s deep roots in Mesoamerican culture dating back 3000 years, to its essential role as a food and medicinal source for European and Colonial Families, chocolate continues to be woven through global culture and pop culture even today.
The Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant, has a special emphasis on uncovering and sharing chocolate’s role in global history as well as its influence on heritage, culture and science. Grant funds will be awarded for project(s) that investigate and/or educate on the history of chocolate and/or the chocolate making process, cocoa science as well as the anticipated audience reach. The scholarship process is competitive, and the awards will be made based on merit as judged by a panel of experts. Educational impact will be at the forefront of this decision process as will attention to equity, inclusion, and diversity in the proposal.
Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant winners will be announced at the annual meeting of the Heritage Chocolate Society scheduled for February 27-28, 2024 in Washington, DC. The Heritage Chocolate Society is a group of history leaders and professionals formed in 2003 with the mission to uncover the collective history of chocolate, and share the stories of its cultural and socioeconomic impact to educate the global community.
