Local History Grants for Collections Care and Access: Mini-Grant Funding

Local History Grants for Collections Care and Access: Mini-Grant Funding

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Wisconsin Historical Society
Amount: Up to US $700
Last Updated: March 23, 2026

Summary

The Local History Grants for Collections Care and Access provide funding up to $700 for historical societies in Wisconsin to enhance their collections management and preservation efforts. Eligible organizations must be affiliated with the Wisconsin Historical Society and meet specific tax-exempt criteria. This mini-grant program encourages projects focused on archival supplies, digitization equipment, and conservation supplies, ensuring that historical collections are preserved for future generations.

Overview

NOTE:  First time applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with local history staff prior to applying. Please send drafts by the "letter of inquiry" deadline above. Purpose The mini-grant program aids affiliated historical societies in fulfilling their missions in the areas of collections care and management. Categories Mini-grant categories are listed below. A project may fit within more than one category: Archival Supplies Collections Management Software Storage & Shelving Digitization Equipment Climate Control Computer Hardware Conservation Supplies Training Grant Amounts and Matching Funds: The maximum grant award to any applicant is $700. As indicated in the application form, grant awards must be matched on a 1:1, dollar-for-dollar basis

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. All organizations formally affiliated with the Wisconsin Historical Society, regardless of location, membership levels, or budget size, are invited to apply. Applicants must be tax exempt under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, be listed on the IRS web site as a Public Charity (PC), be current in filing of federal tax and information returns (e.g., Forms 990 or 990N), and be current in the filing of Annual Reports with the Wisconsin Historical Society.It is not necessary for an applicant to be registered as a charitable entity with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, although such registration is required for some private non-profits. If you have any questions about eligibility, please contact Field Services Staff before completing your application. Grant awards must be matched on a 1:1, dollar for dollar basis.Examples of ELIGIBLE project activities/expenses include:Collections management software, associated add-ons, upgrades, and technical assistance Fees and/or travel expenses for workshops or training on collections care and management Hardware to improve collections management, for example a scanner, digital camera, laptop or computer, or external hard drive (must be for collections-specific activities, not general office use) Purchase of acid-free boxes and folders to house archival materials Purchase of supplies to create appropriate museum-quality storage for textiles Acquisition of a dehumidifier for improved climate control Acquisition of a HEPA vacuum to appropriately clean artifacts and exhibits Monitoring equipment for collections storage, including water detectors and light meters Equipment for collections storage, such as map cases or shelving You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member. Only historical organizations that are affiliates of the Wisconsin Historical Society are eligible to apply.

Ineligibility

Examples of ineligible project activities/expenses:   Projects with no connection to the care and management of museum or archival collections Capital (building) projects, such as the construction of storage areas, ramps, building repairs, or improvements Publications or books Exhibit or display materials, cases, or fabrication (unless the project directly addresses some type of collections care problem like lighting or textile care within an exhibit) Security cameras or security-related materials in museum and exhibit areas Previously purchased supplies, equipment, or other expenses already incurred Staff or contract employee salary or fringe benefits Value of services provided in-kind