The Wilson Family Foundation
Advancing scholarly research that deepens understanding of The Bahamas, expands the nation’s body of knowledge and contributes to informed decision-making and national progress.
In partnership with the University of The Bahamas
2021
The Wilson Grants were introduced
$6,000
Grant awards in the 2026 funding round
$50,000
The Wilson Prize, presented every five years
Nov 21
Inaugural Wilson Prize Presentation, 2026
Our Story
“What began as a husband and wife’s curiosity about their country’s history became an enduring investment in the knowledge that can help shape its future.”
The Wilson Awards Programme was born during an unexpected period of reflection and discovery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sir Franklyn and Lady Wilson maintained a disciplined daily routine, working at their respective stations at home from 9:00am to 3:00pm. When the workday ended, their conversations often turned to Bahamian history: the people, decisions, and events that had shaped the nation.
Determined to help address the need for research funding, they established the Wilson Awards Programme in partnership with the University of The Bahamas, supporting research at two important stages: annual grants for work in progress, and a major prize awarded every five years for outstanding completed scholarship.
Our Vision
A Bahamas where the pursuit of knowledge unlocks our nation’s full potential and leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Our Mission
To advance scholarly research that deepens understanding of The Bahamas, expands the nation’s body of knowledge and contributes to informed decision-making and national progress.
Through the support and recognition of outstanding scholarship, the Foundation seeks to encourage discoveries that will benefit generations to come.
The Wilson Awards Programme
The Wilson Awards Programme brings this mission to life through two complementary initiatives that support scholarly research at different stages, from the development of new ideas to the recognition of outstanding completed work.
Research in progress
The Wilson Grants provide financial support to scholars and creative researchers undertaking original work relevant to The Bahamas. By helping researchers overcome financial barriers, the programme encourages important investigations that deepen understanding of the nation’s history, society, culture and development.
$6,000 per award, 2026 round
Explore the Grants
Completed scholarship
Presented every five years, the $50,000 Wilson Prize recognizes exceptional completed scholarly work that makes a significant contribution to knowledge about The Bahamas. The award celebrates intellectual achievement and the enduring value of research to national development.
$50,000 every five years
Discover the PrizeCommunity
The Foundation’s commitment to service also extends to charitable and educational initiatives that strengthen communities, create opportunities and contribute to the well-being of Bahamian society. Rooted in the family’s longstanding values of faith, education and public service, these efforts reflect a belief that meaningful progress is achieved through both knowledge and action.
News & Events
For scholars and researchers
The Wilson Awards Programme is administered by the University of The Bahamas. For information about Wilson Grant and Wilson Prize eligibility, application requirements and future opportunities, please contact the University.