Explore Preservation Funding Programs
Below you’ll find a curated overview of federal, state and local funding programs that can help you finance the preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties. Many programs are competitive and may require matching funds or income-producing use, so we’ve summarised the key requirements for each.
Federal Programs
Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit – Offers a 20% tax credit for the rehabilitation of income‑producing buildings that are listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Projects must be substantial, meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, and are claimed in equal installments over five years. The credit can be combined with state incentives.
Save America’s Treasures Grants – Administered by the National Park Service and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Grants range from $25,000–750,000 for collections projects and $125,000–750,000 for preservation projects, with a dollar‑for‑dollar non‑federal match required. Funding supports nationally significant collections, historic structures, and preservation planning.
National Trust Preservation Funds – Small planning grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation that typically range from $2,500 to $5,000. These grants support planning, education and advocacy projects; applicants must match funds dollar for dollar and apply during one of the National Trust’s three annual grant cycles.
Other Federal Programs – Additional federal funding sources include the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization grants and National Park Service subgrant programs. These initiatives vary in size and focus but generally require matching funds and support preservation of historically significant properties and communities.
State Programs
State Historic Preservation Tax Credits – Many states offer tax credits for eligible rehabilitation expenses on historic income‑producing or non‑profit buildings. Credit rates vary (often 20–30%) and can sometimes be sold or transferred. Projects generally require properties to be listed on or eligible for the National Register or a state register. These credits are often combined with the federal 20% credit.
State Preservation Grant Programs – Many states administer matching grants to support acquisition, survey, planning, education and restoration projects. Grant amounts often range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more and typically require a dollar‑for‑dollar cash match.
Certified Local Government (CLG) Grants – Federal pass‑through grants are available to cities and counties across the United States that are certified as CLGs. Awards typically range from $5,000 to $45,000 and can fund surveys, National Register nominations, preservation plans, or education projects. A local match is generally required.
Local Programs
Local Preservation Grants – Many cities and counties offer grants funded through tourism or local taxes to support capital, planning, education or marketing projects that promote heritage tourism and community revitalization. These programs typically require projects to occur at designated historic sites, enhance local heritage, and comply with local preservation ordinances. Check with your local historic preservation office or city hall for current opportunities and application cycles.
Applying & Combining Incentives
Maximize incentives by carefully planning your project and combining programs. Owners of income‑producing historic buildings can often claim the federal 20% Rehabilitation Tax Credit along with available state historic tax credits on the same qualified rehabilitation work. State programs and local grants may supply additional funding, but most incentives require matching funds and adherence to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
National Park Service Historic Preservaton Tax Incentives – Overview and application information.
IRS Form 3468 and Instructions – Claiming the federal rehabilitation credit.
State Historic Preservation Offices – Provide information on state tax credits and grants.
Resources & Links
Save America’s Treasures – Grant program for nationally significant collections and historic structures.
National Trust for Historic Preservation – National Trust Preservation Funds and other grant opportunities.
Local Preservation Offices – Provide details and application guidance for local grant programs.