STATE BOARD PROGRAMMING GRANTS

The National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC) is offering State Board Programming Grants to support projects carried out by state historical records advisory boards. The goal of these projects is to engage the public, enhance civic education, and boost understanding of US history, democracy, and culture.

Projects that contribute to the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence are particularly welcome. The NHPRC also encourages submissions that use collections to analyze the ideas that contributed to the founding of the United States, as well as their continual reinterpretation and debate over the last 250 years. The commission is especially interested in collections that focus on the history and voices of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities.

The grant supports a variety of initiatives, including enhancing preservation and online access to historical records, supporting activities that engage the public with primary sources, and improving institutional capabilities in underserved communities. State historical records advisory boards can use the grants to implement state-based programs preserving historical records, providing educational and outreach programs, offering scholarships and training opportunities, and collaborating on projects with other organizations.

Applications for the grant should address certain tactics outlined by the NHPRC to be competitive. This includes supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in professional development, offering workshops to educate potential applicants, and developing projects that encourage public participation. Successful applications should also include plans for assessing the impact of the board's programs and proposing appropriate changes.

The commission offers two levels of funding: a Level I grant for up to $12,000 for one year and a Level II grant for up to $40,000 for one year or up to $80,000 for two years. The commission expects to award up to 30 grants, totalling up to $800,000.

Eligibility requirements stipulate that only state historical records advisory boards, or state agencies responsible for the state board, can apply. Other state agencies or non-profit organizations can apply on behalf of the state agency. It includes all states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and United States territories. Projects must also include at least one eligible activity described for the program.

Cost sharing is another requirement, where the total costs of a project are to be divided between the NHPRC and the applicant organization. This financial contribution may include direct and indirect expenses, in-kind contributions, nonFederal third-party contributions, and any income directly earned by the project.