Each year, the African Studies Association funded the Annual Meeting attendance of 3 to 5 international scholars. Nominated scholars were of any nationality, though the preponderance of awards was made to Africans. Preference was given to women and junior scholars, and to individuals who had not recently visited North America. Individuals or institutions in North America could sponsor a scholar. Alternatively, individual scholars could nominate themselves. Pending future funding, 2006 constituted the last year of the award cycle.