ActiveClosedFoundation

National Fund for Sacred Places.

The National Fund provides large matching capital grants and technical support for community-serving historic houses of worship.

Offered byPartners for Sacred Placesverified 2026-07-10

Overview

What it does.

Partners for Sacred Places operates the program with the National Trust. The 2026 application is closed, but qualifying Chester congregations may prepare for a future annual round.

Best for: A community-serving Chester congregation undertaking a major capital project at a significant historic house of worship.

Eligibility

Who and what may qualify.

Eligible applicants

  • Active U.S. congregations at least three years old
  • Closely affiliated nonprofits responsible for a qualifying historic house of worship

Applicants excluded by the source

  • Properties not purpose-built as houses of worship
  • Applicants unable to demonstrate architectural, cultural, or historic significance

Eligible uses

  • Planning for urgent capital projects
  • Capital rehabilitation
  • Training
  • Technical assistance
  • Fundraising capacity

Uses excluded by the source

  • Work started before program authorization

Application

How to start.

  1. Complete the official eligibility self-assessment.
  2. Prepare evidence of building significance, congregation health, community service, scope, and fundraising capacity.
  3. Apply during the next annual cycle.

Timing: The 2026 deadline has passed; final notifications are scheduled for October 2026.

Planning notes

Limits to account for.

  • The property must be a significant purpose-built historic house of worship owned by an active faith community.
  • Work cannot start before required program authorization.

Bridge loans and congregation reserves do not count as the required match; coordinate all preservation grants carefully.

Evidence

Official sources.