Apply now for the 2026 VRA Travel Awards!✨

We are delighted to announce that VRA Travel Awards are available for attendance at the 2026 VRA Virtual conference October 5-9, 2026!

Though the VRA conference is virtual this year, we realize that members and other attendees may still need some help with registration fees.  The application submission deadline is August 24 at 11:59 pm EDT​. Apply here today!

The list of recipients will be announced on the VRA listserv the on September 17.  If you have applied for a travel award in the past, most of the application will look very familiar. But, with no need for hotel and airfare and full budgets, we have simplified the application. Please also note that award checks are scheduled to be mailed to recipients after on October 5th.  Do try to register during the Early Bird period that ends on September 5th.  Contact our committee at travelawards@vraweb.org with any questions.

You do not need to be a member of the VRA to apply for a Travel Award. We recommend you to review the Rules & Guidelines below before applying.

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VRA 2026 Travel Award Rules & Guidelines

Eligibility

 Travel awards are available to members and non-members (including international applicants). Here’s a link to the VRA membership page: http://www.vraweb.org/membership/

• Conditions Upon Receipt of a VRA Travel Award

• Applicants will need to register for the conference before awards can be given.  Award checks will be mailed on 5 October 2026.

• Award monies are intended for conference registration.

Tips for Completing Your Application

We can’t wait to read your application! We find that successful applications have a few specific qualities, and here are some of the most important things to keep in mind: 

• Please be as precise as you can with your answers. 

• Be as specific and thorough as possible in your Conference Goals Statement. 

  • Your response should range from 250-500 words. 

  • Tell the Committee how certain workshops, sessions, and roundtables will directly benefit the work that you do in your collection or academic program. 

  • Avoid generalizations such as “I will get to talk with colleagues about their digitization projects” or “I hope to learn about copyright law.” We want to know the specifics of why and how these conference opportunities will benefit your career. 

  • Be brave! Participate in the Conference as a presenter, moderator, or volunteer. Connect with your VRA colleagues.  Consider joining a committee and attending its meeting. And be sure to note your intended participation in your Conference Goals Statement. 

  • Think about other ways you might give back to VRA in advance, and mention this in your Conference Goals Statement. Some ways to give back include: 

    • Writing an article for inclusion on the VRA website or in the VRA Bulletin.

    • Facilitating a meeting or other conference event.