Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The National Park Service is inviting applications under the FY2025 and FY2026 Historic Preservation Fund Semiquincentennial Grants Program to support preservation of historic resources connected to the founding of the United States ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The programme supports preservation and pre-preservation projects for historic buildings, structures, sites, districts, and objects associated with American history through 1815.
Focus Areas
The programme supports:
- Historic preservation projects
- Preservation planning
- Architectural and engineering services
- Historic structure reports
- Archaeological and historical studies
- Cultural resource protection
- National Register documentation amendments
Eligible projects must relate to:
- The founding of the United States
- Early American history
- The War of 1812 period
- Historic people, places, events, and traditions through 1815
The initiative also encourages projects highlighting:
Funding Support
Total funding available:
- USD 11,907,000
Expected awards:
- Approximately 20 grants
Funding ranges:
- Preservation projects: USD 75,000 to USD 750,000
- Pre-preservation projects: USD 15,000 to USD 75,000
Cost sharing:
- No mandatory non-federal match required
- Matching contributions may strengthen applications
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- State governments
- County governments
- City or township governments
- Nonprofit organisations
- Institutions of higher education
- Federally recognized Tribal governments
- Native Hawaiian organizations
- Tribal organizations
Eligible properties must:
- Already be listed on the National Register of Historic Places
or - Be designated National Historic Landmarks
Eligible Activities
Projects may include:
- Physical preservation work
- Restoration and stabilization
- Preservation planning
- Architectural plans and assessments
- Historic structure reports
- Surveys and documentation
- Engineering services
- Amendments to National Register nominations
All projects must comply with:
- The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archeology and Historic Preservation
Why This Initiative Matters
The programme supports:
- Preservation of nationally significant cultural resources
- Recognition of America’s 250th anniversary
- Protection of historic heritage sites
- Public understanding of early American history
It also helps preserve:
- Stories, traditions, and lifeways connected to the nation’s founding
- Important sites linked to the War of 1812 and formative U.S. history
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Confirm property eligibility status
- Develop a preservation or pre-preservation project plan
- Prepare budgets and supporting documentation
- Ensure compliance with preservation standards
- Submit the application according to programme guidelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Applying with properties not officially listed or designated
- Submitting incomplete preservation plans
- Ignoring federal preservation standards
- Including ineligible administrative costs
- Proposing projects unrelated to the programme timeframe
FAQ
- Who manages the programme?
- The programme is administered by the National Park Service.
- What is the total funding available?
- The total funding available is USD 11,907,000.
- How much funding can applicants receive?
- Preservation projects may receive USD 75,000–750,000, while pre-preservation projects may receive USD 15,000–75,000.
- Is cost sharing required?
- No mandatory cost sharing is required, but matching contributions may improve competitiveness.
- What properties are eligible?
- Eligible properties must already be listed on the National Register of Historic Places or designated as National Historic Landmarks.
Conclusion
The National Park Service Semiquincentennial Grants Program supports preservation of historic resources connected to the founding of the United States and the War of 1812 era. Through funding for preservation and planning activities, the programme aims to protect nationally significant cultural heritage as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.