Deadline: 07-Jul-2026
The National Park Service (NPS) is accepting applications for the Underrepresented Communities Grant Program, funded through the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF). The program supports efforts to identify, document, and nominate historic places associated with communities that have been historically underrepresented in the National Register of Historic Places.
The initiative aims to expand recognition of diverse historical and cultural heritage across the United States by supporting surveys, research, documentation, and nomination activities. It also contributes to the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary by ensuring that more communities and stories are represented in the nation’s historic preservation efforts.
About the Grant Program
The Underrepresented Communities Grant Program supports projects that increase the representation of historically underrepresented communities in the National Register of Historic Places.
The program funds activities that identify significant historic sites, document their history, and prepare new National Register nominations or amendments to existing nominations. Every funded project must result in at least one new nomination or an amendment that reflects the history and contributions of an underrepresented community.
Focus Areas
Projects may focus on:
- Identifying historic sites associated with underrepresented communities
- Conducting surveys of historic properties
- Researching and documenting historic places
- Preparing new National Register nominations
- Amending existing National Register nominations
- Preserving diverse cultural and historical heritage
- Expanding representation in the National Register of Historic Places
- Supporting initiatives connected to America’s 250th anniversary
Purpose of the Program
The program aims to:
- Increase representation of underrepresented communities in the National Register
- Preserve diverse historical and cultural heritage
- Recognize the contributions of historically overlooked communities
- Support research and documentation of significant historic places
- Strengthen public understanding of American history
- Encourage inclusive historic preservation efforts
- Expand access to historical recognition and protection
Funding Information
Funding details include:
- Estimated total funding of $1.25 million
- Approximately 15 awards expected
- Grant amounts ranging from $15,000 to $100,000
- No cost-sharing requirement
- No matching contribution required
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs)
- Tribal Historic Preservation Offices (THPOs)
- Federally recognized Tribes
- Alaska Native Villages
- Alaska Native Corporations
- Native Hawaiian Organizations
- Certified Local Governments (CLGs)
- Nonprofit tax-exempt organizations
- Nonprofit organizations with or without 501(c)(3) status
Ineligible Projects and Applicants
The following are not eligible:
- Applications seeking renewal of existing projects
- Applications seeking supplementation of existing projects
- Projects involving sites or collections owned, leased, or otherwise held by the National Park Service
Project Requirements
Funded projects must:
- Result in at least one new National Register nomination, or
- Result in an amendment to an existing National Register nomination
- Clearly demonstrate how the project addresses underrepresentation
- Focus on communities that are not adequately represented in the National Register
Projects may include:
- Historical surveys
- Archival research
- Documentation activities
- Nomination preparation
- Community-based historical research
Additional requirements include:
- Owner consent letters for properties owned by entities other than the applicant
- Artifact curation plans for archaeological survey projects where applicable
- Plans for sharing research findings with the public when appropriate
Application Process
Applicants should:
- Confirm eligibility requirements
- Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
- Maintain an active SAM.gov registration
- Prepare all required project documentation
- Secure property owner consent when necessary
- Complete the application through Grants.gov
- Submit the application before the deadline
Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov.
Late applications will not be considered.
Importance of the Program
The Underrepresented Communities Grant Program helps ensure that America’s historic preservation efforts reflect the full diversity of its people and history.
Key benefits include:
- Increased recognition of underrepresented communities
- Preservation of diverse cultural heritage
- Improved historical documentation
- Greater inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places
- Support for community-based preservation initiatives
- Enhanced public awareness of historically overlooked stories
- Contribution to America’s 250th anniversary commemoration
Application Tips
Strong applications typically demonstrate:
- A clear connection to an underrepresented community
- Strong historical significance of the proposed site or property
- Well-developed research and documentation plans
- Clear outcomes related to National Register nominations
- Community engagement and support
- Complete and accurate application materials
Common Application Mistakes
Applications may be weakened by:
- Failing to demonstrate underrepresentation
- Unclear nomination goals
- Incomplete documentation
- Missing property owner consent letters
- Weak research methodology
- Failure to meet eligibility requirements
- Inactive SAM.gov registration
- Missing required archaeological documentation where applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Underrepresented Communities Grant Program?
- A National Park Service grant program that supports projects identifying, documenting, and nominating historic places associated with underrepresented communities.
How much funding is available?
- Approximately $1.25 million is available under the program.
- Around 15 grants are expected to be awarded.
- Individual awards range from $15,000 to $100,000.
Who can apply?
- State Historic Preservation Offices.
- Tribal Historic Preservation Offices.
- Federally recognized Tribes.
- Alaska Native Villages and Corporations.
- Native Hawaiian Organizations.
- Certified Local Governments.
- Nonprofit organizations with or without 501(c)(3) status.
Is matching funding required?
- No.
- Cost-sharing or matching contributions are not required.
What types of activities are supported?
- Historic property surveys.
- Historical research and documentation.
- Preparation of National Register nominations.
- Amendments to existing National Register nominations.
What must funded projects produce?
- At least one new National Register nomination, or
- An amendment to an existing National Register nomination reflecting an underrepresented community.
What registrations are required before applying?
- A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
- An active registration in SAM.gov.
Conclusion
The National Park Service Underrepresented Communities Grant Program provides critical support for preserving and recognizing the histories of communities that have been historically overlooked in the National Register of Historic Places. Through funding of up to $100,000, the program helps organizations document important heritage resources, expand representation in historic preservation, and ensure that a broader range of American stories are recognized and preserved for future generations.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.
