ActiveNot Currently Accepting ApplicationsNonprofit

National Trust Preservation Funds.

National Trust Preservation Funds provide competitive seed grants for nonprofit and public-agency preservation planning and education.

Offered byNational Trust for Historic Preservationverified 2026-07-10

Overview

What it does.

The program generally awards small grants and operates multiple rounds each year. The June 2026 round included Illinois, but applicants should confirm the state allocation and portal status for the next round.

Best for: A nonprofit or public agency needing early planning or education support for a historic place.

Eligibility

Who and what may qualify.

Eligible applicants

  • Public agencies and qualifying nonprofit organizations
  • Selected grantees that satisfy National Trust or Main Street America membership requirements

Applicants excluded by the source

  • Individuals and for-profit applicants

Eligible uses

  • Preservation planning
  • Education and outreach
  • Professional expertise
  • Seed funding for local preservation work

Application

How to start.

  1. Confirm the current round includes Illinois.
  2. Review applicant membership conditions.
  3. Prepare the project narrative, budget, and required attachments for the grant portal.

Timing: The program generally has February, June, and October deadlines; verify the next open state allocation before applying.

Planning notes

Limits to account for.

  • Funding is competitive and generally supports planning or education rather than major construction.
  • State availability and membership conditions apply.

Seed funding may leverage other public and private preservation resources, subject to match rules.

Evidence

Official sources.