Apply Now: Annual State Historic Preservation Office Grants (US)

The Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) provides formula-based federal grants to State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs) to support preservation activities under the National Historic Preservation Act. With approximately $62.15 million in annual funding, it supports historic site protection, surveys, National Register nominations, and preservation planning, with grants ranging from $316,000 to $2.2 million.

Overview

The Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) is a U.S. federal grant program that provides annual formula-based funding to State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs). It is authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).

The program supports nationwide efforts to identify, protect, and preserve historic and cultural resources across the United States and affiliated jurisdictions.

Program Objectives

The HPF aims to strengthen historic preservation systems by supporting:

Identification and documentation of historic properties
Protection and conservation of cultural heritage sites
Compliance with federal preservation laws
Public engagement in heritage conservation
Capacity building for state and local preservation offices

Core Areas of Funding Support

The program funds a wide range of preservation activities, including:

Historic Resource Identification

Statewide historic surveys
Inventory of cultural and architectural heritage
Evaluation of historic significance

Preservation Planning

State and local preservation strategies
Long-term heritage management planning
Integration into community development plans

Regulatory Compliance

Review of federal undertakings affecting historic sites
Environmental and cultural compliance coordination

National Register of Historic Places

Preparation and submission of nominations
Documentation of historically significant properties

Technical Assistance

Support for local governments and preservation partners
Guidance on preservation best practices

Certified Local Governments (CLGs)

Financial support to certified local preservation programs
Strengthening local-level heritage protection

Tax Incentive Programs

Support for historic rehabilitation tax incentives
Encouraging private investment in preservation

Program Administration

SHPO operational support
Staff and administrative capacity building

Funding Overview

Total estimated funding: $62,150,000
Expected number of awards: ~59
Grant range: $316,000 to $2,200,000

Funding Structure

Distributed through a formula-based apportionment
Approved by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Covers:
- 50 U.S. states
- 5 territories
- 3 Freely Associated States
- District of Columbia

Budget Note

If operating under a continuing resolution, partial funding may be issued first
Additional allocations follow after full budget approval

Who is Eligible?

Primary Eligible Applicants

State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs)
State governments as defined under the NHPA

Special Cases

Entities such as the Ohio History Connection (serving as Ohio’s SHPO)

Nonprofit Organizations

501(c)(3) nonprofits may be referenced in statute
However, eligibility is strictly governed by federal law and typically limited to SHPO-designated entities

Cost Sharing Requirement

The program requires significant non-federal cost sharing:

Minimum match: 40% of total project cost
Sources may include:
- Cash contributions
- In-kind services
- Volunteer labor

Exceptions

Certain U.S. territories and insular areas may be exempt from cost-sharing requirements

Key Financial Rules

Administrative Cost Cap

Maximum 25% of total project cost can be used for administrative expenses

Local Pass-Through Requirement

At least 10% of total funds must be allocated to Certified Local Governments (CLGs)

Eligible Activities Must Align With

The HPF supports activities that strengthen SHPO functions, including:

Statewide preservation programs
Public education and engagement
Collaboration with local governments
Cultural heritage documentation
Long-term preservation planning

Special National Priority

States are encouraged to align projects with:

U.S. 250th anniversary initiatives
Programs highlighting American history and heritage

Application Requirements

Applicants must complete federal grant compliance steps:

Registration Requirements

Required Documents

Standard federal application forms
Detailed project narrative
Budget justification
Cost-sharing documentation
Compliance certifications

How the HPF Works (Process Flow)

Federal appropriation is allocated annually
Funds are distributed to SHPOs using a formula system
SHPOs implement preservation programs statewide
Funds support local governments, CLGs, and preservation projects
Reporting and compliance ensure federal accountability

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Misunderstanding eligibility (only SHPO-designated entities qualify)
Failing to meet 40% cost-share requirement
Weak documentation of preservation outcomes
Incorrect SAM.gov or Grants.gov registration
Exceeding administrative cost limits
Missing CLG pass-through requirements

Tips for Strong Implementation

Align projects with NHPA priorities and federal guidelines
Strengthen collaboration with Certified Local Governments
Document measurable preservation outcomes
Ensure strong cost-share planning early
Integrate public engagement and education components
Highlight historical significance clearly in narratives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF)?

It is a federal grant program that funds State Historic Preservation Offices to protect and manage historic and cultural resources under the National Historic Preservation Act.

2. Who can apply for HPF grants?

Only State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs) and eligible state-level entities designated under federal law.

3. How much funding is available?

Approximately $62.15 million annually, with individual grants ranging from $316,000 to $2.2 million.

4. What is the cost-sharing requirement?

Applicants must provide at least 40% of total project costs from non-federal sources, except in certain territories.

5. What activities are funded?

Historic surveys, preservation planning, National Register nominations, compliance reviews, and technical assistance.

6. Is administrative funding allowed?

Yes, but it is capped at 25% of total project cost.

7. Are local governments involved?

Yes, at least 10% of funds must support Certified Local Governments (CLGs).

Conclusion

The Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) is a foundational U.S. federal program that ensures the protection and documentation of historic and cultural heritage across all states and territories. By funding SHPOs, it strengthens national preservation systems, supports local governments, and promotes long-term stewardship of historic resources under the National Historic Preservation Act.