Commerce Dept Announces Opening of New Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program
HELENA, Mont. -- Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice announced Wednesday the Department is now accepting applications for the Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program. The new grant program is designed to support the preservation of historical sites, societies and museums in Montana.
“Preserving and promoting Montana’s histories and cultures gives a boost to our charming towns,” Commerce Director Rice said. “Out-of-state visitors and residents alike seek out authentic historical experiences. These grants will help our storied places continue to share stories of the past, giving visitors and residents a true glimpse of Montana’s fascinating, deep-rooted history.”
Passed by the 2019 Montana Legislature and signed by Governor Steve Bullock, the Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program was created to help communities increase economic development, community revitalization and statewide tourism through added investment, job creation, business expansion and local tax-base growth.
With awards of up to $500,000 for each eligible grant recipient, the funding will be used to improve historical sites, historical societies or history museums in Montana. These improvements may include infrastructure repair, building renovations, maintenance, building code issues, security enhancements and fire protection.
Eligible applicants for the program include incorporated nonprofit organizations, incorporated cities or towns, associations, counties and tribal governments.
Historic sites will be considered eligible if it is either a structure or site that is listed on a national, state or local historic registry, a structure or site that contributes to a historic district or a structure that is more than 50 years old with documented historical significance to a Montana community or region.
Applications are due by February 28, 2020. Grant recipients will be determined by the Montana Legislature during the 2021 legislative session. For more information and how to apply visit COMDEV.MT.GOV.