State Historical Fund: Planning Grant

State Historical Fund: Planning Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: History Colorado
Amount: Up to US $20,000
Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Summary

The State Historical Fund's Planning Grant, offered by History Colorado, supports public entities and nonprofit organizations in Colorado to develop planning documents essential for future preservation projects. This grant fosters collaboration with experienced consultants familiar with the Secretary of Interior's Standards. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments, and certified nonprofits. The funding aims to enhance historical preservation efforts, ensuring that critical planning is completed to facilitate successful project execution.

Overview

About History Colorado Established in 1879, History Colorado is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and an agency of the State of Colorado under the Department of Higher Educations. We are committed to serving all Coloradans and offer access to our state’s history through enriching experiences at eleven museums and historic sites, with dynamic and relevant exhibits and activities. We steward about 15 million objects, photographs, and archival resources that make up the State’s collection, and serve tens of thousands of learners of all ages through dynamic programs. We work with school groups and youth through field trips, day camps, and traveling programs across the state of Colorado. We’re home to a free public research center, Colorado’s Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (OAHP), and the Colorado State Historical Fund (SHF), the nation’s largest preservation program of its kind. Planning Grant The Planning grant can include any planning documents which will help the project move forward, giving projects more flexibility to prepare for future physical work. Planning grants should be completed by consultants that are experienced and familiar with planning projects. The selected consultant should be knowledgeable in applying the Secretary of Interior's Standards for physical work and nomination activity. Such projects may include: Nominations Contexts Construction Documents Schematic Design Plans Design Development Plans Investigation (HazMat, Geotechnical, Structural, Materials Analysis, etc.) Cost Estimating Maintenance Plans Master Plans

Eligibility

We've imported the main document for this grant to give you an overview. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Public Entities within Colorado State agenciesCounty, city, or township governments including Special DistrictsSovereign Tribal NationsNonprofit Organizations Includes any organization registered with and certified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501 (c), (d), (e), (f), and (k), or Section 521 (a).Religious organizations must also be fully registered with the Internal Revenue Service or fall under a group exemption.Not sure if you’re registered and certified as a tax-exempt nonprofit? Check your tax status.Nonprofits must also be a registered business entity or charity in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State.

Ineligibility

Federal Agencies Federal agencies must partner with an eligible public entity or nonprofit organization willing to apply for and administer a grant on their behalf. Private Individuals and For Profit Entities Private individuals and for-profit entities must partner with an eligible public entity or nonprofit organization willing to apply for and administer a grant on their behalf. State statute mandates that private owners must have the support of their local government. Your application must include either the signature of a local elected official or a letter of support from a local elected official. Ineligible Expenses: Grant administrationContingency