Lewis County Historic Preservation Fund Grant

Lewis County Historic Preservation Fund Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Northern New York Community Foundation
Amount: Up to US $100,000
Last Updated: October 21, 2025

Summary

The Lewis County Historic Preservation Fund, established by the Northern New York Community Foundation, offers up to $100,000 in funding for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and churches in Lewis County. It aims to support historic preservation, restoration projects, and community landmarks. Eligible applicants must focus on significant historical properties and address exterior elements. This initiative not only preserves the region's rich history but also enhances community identity and fosters public engagement.

Overview

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others. The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play. The Community Foundation stewards several charitable funds that award grants annually to support programs, projects, and initiatives that positively impact the quality of life across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. Lewis County Historic Preservation Fund Historic preservation holds significant value by preserving history, fostering community identity, and offering economic and environmental benefits, contributing to the quality of life in our region. It helps residents understand our past, connect with our heritage, and create a stronger sense of place while adding character to the landscape of our communities. To celebrate the rich historical heritage of Lewis County, New York through support for historic preservation and restoration projects, the Northern New York Community Foundation provides a funding opportunity of up to $100,000. Focus areas: History, historic preservation, and increasing the awareness and appreciation of the same.The full amount is available for the application period. The intention is to accommodate multiple grants that are meaningful with the total funding available.  Successful applicants may receive full or partial funding, with consideration of project priorities.Funding will be disbursed in advance of the start of the project, based on demonstrated project need and timeline.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and churches located entirely within Lewis County, that plan to undertake historic preservation or restoration. Projects should focus on the preservation or restoration of places of legitimate historical significance and significant historical community landmarks.Properties slated for historic preservation or restoration must be wholly owned by the applicant organization.Funding is available for projects that specifically address the exterior of existing structures or elements.

Ineligibility

For this program, cemeteries are not eligible for consideration.No grants will be awarded for additions or modifications that substantially alter the historic nature and character of the property slated for historic preservation or restoration.Reimbursement for prior expenses will not be considered.Requests will not be considered for work commencing before September 30, 2025