This grant was inspired by Howard G. Buffett’s use of photography to document the nexus of conflict and development in “Fragile: The Human Condition.” It is managed by The Center on Conflict and Development at Texas A&M University (“ConDev”).

To enable and encourage student photographers (especially those interested in photojournalism and international conflict) to document and highlight issues related to conflict and development through stunning visual media in the country where these events are taking place.

A maximum team size of two people is eligible to submit a joint proposal. The funding limit will be the same ($5,000 maximum). One applicant must be listed at the primary contact with ConDev.

Awards will not exceed $5,000 per awardee.

COVID-19 UPDATE: Please check with your university's travel guidelines regarding the pandemic. Many travel restrictions are in place. Also, it is unlikely that administrators will approve travel to a country where there is a U.S. Department of State travel warning in place. If you submit an application that proposes travel to a country under a travel warning, ConDev is required to seek external approval before you can travel there; if your proposed travel is not approved, your application will be removed from consideration. If you live in a country under a State Department travel warning, we are still required to seek external approval. If you have any questions about your proposed travel, please do not hesitate to contact the Grant Manager (condevcenter@condevcenter.org). Grantees are not required to travel as part of the grant. If you wish to photograph a conflict-related issue in your home country, you are welcome to do so.

Yes; the grant is open to students (undergraduate, graduate, Master’s, PhD) worldwide. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen or resident to apply. 

No. Students from all majors and areas of study are encouraged to apply. Your major does not have to be related to photography, journalism or international studies, though applicants with previous photography experience are especially encouraged to apply.

Normally, awards are announced in December. The photo expeditions of the Student Media Grant should take place sometime between February and November to allow student to submit their final reports by December. 

No, if you are graduating this year, you may not apply. Also, incoming students are not yet eligible for the Student Media Grant, but we look forward to reviewing your proposal next year!

A successful application will have thorough responses and adequately answer all the prompts explained above. Please refer to the SMGP Application page for guidance.

No

The SMGP Manager will contact you and a phone interviews may be required. You’ll be required to provide some more information, like: a letter signed by your supervising professor, evidence of good health and medical insurance that is valid in the area to which you expect to travel, etc. You’ll also have to register your emergency contact information with the Study Abroad Office.

Yes. We understand that not everyone speaks English as a first language, but please do your best. Thanks!

Yes, you can reapply. Update your proposal based on previous feedback and proposal guidelines to better your chances of receiving an award.