Best Grants for Historic Preservation in Maryland

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Nonprofits, government or quasi-government agencies, religious organizations, and civic groups in Maryland can apply for the Community Foundation of Frederick County’s Impact Grants; awards more than US $500 for community-focused projects. Eligible work includes historic preservation along with health and human services, arts, agriculture, animal welfare, education, youth programs, and civic causes.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development, education, human services, health, cultural programs, or veteran support in Maryland may be eligible for grants from Penn National Gaming. Eligible applicants must be physically located in a Maryland community where the company has a business interest, which currently includes Cecil County.

Historic preservation nonprofits in Maryland can seek funding for archival projects, structural restoration, and related programming that protects cultural heritage. Focused on community enrichment, Delaplaine Foundation invites 501(c)(3) public charities and qualifying 509(a) institutions to apply, with priority for projects demonstrating long-term impact and strong support, especially in Frederick County and nearby areas.

Public agencies and 501(c)(3) or other nonprofits in Maryland (Annapolis only) can seek US $2,500 - US $5,000 for historic preservation planning and education projects, including capacity building and outreach. National Trust for Historic Preservation supports local efforts such as feasibility studies, design guidelines, community forums, and innovative programs introducing new audiences to preservation.

Maryland museums interpreting the state’s cultural heritage, history, natural history, or history of science and technology can receive funding to strengthen operations and long-term sustainability. Maryland Historical Trust’s Museum Assistance Program Grants offer up to US $20,000 to support museums and institutional collections, which may include organizations engaged in historic preservation work in Maryland.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits planning one-time, project-based work such as historic preservation, capital improvements, or other community initiatives can apply for France-Merrick Foundation grants of more than US $50,000. Funding supports organizations with strong financial stability and administrative capacity, primarily in the greater Baltimore area, to enhance long-term impact in their communities.

Maryland 501(c)(3) arts nonprofits producing public programming in Anne Arundel County can receive up to US $2,500 for innovative, well-defined arts projects reaching new or underserved audiences. Arts Council of Anne Arundel County offers matching mini grants, which may support arts initiatives connected to historic preservation or cultural heritage in local communities.

Middendorf Foundation Arts and Culture GrantsThe Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture.The Foundation believes that arts and cultural institutions help define and create vibrant communities and foster sustainable economic development. We view investing in this sector as an integral component of supporting well-rounded, inclusive and dynamic community growth.The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years.

Use of Funds:

All grant funds must be used within one year of receiving the award.

Middendorf Foundation Education Grants

The Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture.

A well-educated population is critical to the vitality of our state. We seek to foster innovation, creativity, and equity through education. The Foundation has long been interested and involved in funding educational institutions which demonstrate uncommon success in preparing students to thrive in a global society. The Foundation funds innovative models for early childhood, K-12 education, higher education and professional development.

The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years.

Use of Funds:

All grant funds must be used within one year of receiving the award.

Middendorf Foundation Environment GrantsThe Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture.Since the 1970’s, the Foundation has been aware of emerging environmental issues regarding air and water pollution, loss of wilderness and the extinction of wildlife. Over the decades, the Foundation has supported a broad array of environmental interests.  Supporting the urgent need to resolve environmental issues including addressing pollution and the extinction of wildlife.The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years.Use of Funds:

All grant funds must be used within one year of receiving the award.

The Middendorf Foundation HealthCare Grants support healthcare initiatives essential for the thriving of individuals and communities. By focusing on one-time costs for capital projects, equipment, and technology with a lifespan of over seven years, the foundation aims to improve access to quality healthcare for all Marylanders. Eligible applicants include established nonprofits serving Baltimore City or County that hold a valid 501(c)(3) status. This initiative fosters a healthier future by ensuring effective use of funds within a year of the award.

Middendorf Foundation Inc

The Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture. During their lifetimes, Mr. & Mrs. Middendorf provided inspirational leadership to the Foundation. Upon their deaths, the Foundation received generous bequests, which allowed it to begin making more sizable grants on a regular basis. Current assets are valued at $60 million.

In 2018, upon the death of their last surviving child, Alice Carter Middendorf, the Foundation received another large bequest which has further strengthened its ability to support causes of interest to the Middendorfs. Today the Foundation is governed by trustees who are honored to safeguard the legacy of the Middendorfs. 

Middendorf Foundation Historic Preservation Grants

The Middendorf Foundation has long recognized the importance of preserving historic buildings and sites and has supported those who believe in the preservation of Maryland’s cultural heritage. The Foundation is committed to preserving sites of historical significance so that they will continue to be enjoyed by a broad public well into the future.

The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years. 

IRS-registered 501(c)(3) public charities serving Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties in Maryland can apply for Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $250,000 to support community-focused programs. Eligible work includes community development, equitable and affordable housing, youth development, education, environmental restoration, and health and wellness initiatives that benefit vulnerable and underserved residents.

Public and nonprofit-private Pre-K–12 schools in Maryland can apply for funding to integrate dance, history, music, theater, and arts-related projects into their curricula. Focused on arts education, Arts Council of Anne Arundel County invites schools, including those preserving local heritage, to host assemblies, performances, and artist residencies, with up to US $5,000 available per grant.

Maryland historic preservation and heritage organizations can access funding for capital and non-capital projects that preserve and interpret the state’s past. Maryland groups working within the state’s 13 certified heritage areas may be eligible for US $5,000 - US $100,008 from the Maryland Historical Trust to enhance communities, tourism, sustainability, and economic development.

Nonprofit and public entities undertaking historic preservation and heritage tourism projects in Maryland can seek funding for non-capital work such as interpretation, programming, and planning. Maryland Historical Trust supports projects in the state’s 13 heritage areas that highlight Maryland’s diverse heritage, enhance communities, and promote tourism, sustainability, and economic development, with awards from US $5,000 - US $50,000.

The Community Trust Foundation Inc.

The inception of a Western Maryland community foundation for building economic prosperity and for enhancing the quality of life for its people came from caring community leaders of The Greater Cumberland Committee. The primary question was whether the dream for this foundation could be realized. Together, they worked with Casper R. Taylor Jr., Maryland Speaker of the House, 1994-2003 and promoted the benefits of a community foundation for “ leaving behind a legacy to solve local problems by people who know and care about local problems” to the Cumberland Chamber of Commerce & Rotary of Cumberland, MD.

CTF was fortunate to operate with dedicated board members and a small part-time staff in a rent-free office space. Working tirelessly, the board worked to grow funds, secured operating capital, and submitted a 500-page policy and procedure manual to earn accreditation from the Council of Foundations. They also established advisory councils for each county (Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral), sponsored an annual Humanitarian Award Banquet for community outreach, and gained respect from community members and organizations seeking their leadership.

The Community Trust Foundation Grant

CTF serves as a community leader in philanthropy by raising, managing and distributing funds to address identified needs in Allegany and Garrett Counties, Maryland and in Mineral County, West Virginia. We partner with area non-profits and donors to make effective grants and enable local citizens to generate local solutions in their communities. We make grants to non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to building better, stronger, more vital communities in the region.

Since our inception in 2006, CTF has awarded over $7 million in grants, building stronger more vibrant communities. CTF grants support; the arts, education, historical preservation, health and wellness and building a thriving environment. We are committed to identifying high-priority needs and opportunities to make a significant positive impact on the community. CTF grants are typically used to provide start-up or short-term funding to innovative projects designed to meet emerging needs or with creative solutions to longer-term issues.

Organizations and property owners preserving historic sites in Maryland can receive capital funding for urgent preservation projects that benefit the public. Grants from Maryland Historical Trust help Maryland historic preservation efforts for properties listed in, or eligible for, the National Register of Historic Places, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $100,000.

Maryland 501(c)(3) public charities seeking support for tangible items can apply for grants up to US $10,000 to strengthen arts, education, environment, health, human services, religion, and community programs. Grants from Snee-Reinhardt Charitable Foundation may benefit organizations involved in historic preservation as part of broader cultural or community development efforts.

Nonprofit arts organizations providing public arts programming in Anne Arundel County can use this funding for general operating support and community arts activities. Grants from Arts Council of Anne Arundel County help Maryland historic preservation and cultural groups that emphasize artistic expression, community engagement, and arts access, with founding grants available up to US $2,500 for first-time recipients.

Public agencies and 501(c)(3) and other nonprofit organizations preserving historic sites on Maryland’s Eastern Shore can apply for $5,000 - $25,000 to acquire, maintain, and protect historic landmarks and memorials. With a mission to advance historic preservation, the National Trust for Historic Preservation funds land and building acquisition, bricks-and-mortar work, easements, and related technical assistance in eligible Eastern Shore counties.

Historic preservation and conservation organizations in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic can seek funding for planning, education, and outreach projects that protect natural and cultural resources. National Trust for Historic Preservation supports initiatives like preservation planning, community forums, and public education, offering up to US $7,500 with a required dollar-for-dollar cash match.

Maryland historic preservation nonprofits and public agencies can seek funding for planning and education projects that protect battlefields, viewsheds, and related historic structures. Maryland historic preservation groups can access funding through National Trust for Historic Preservation to hire preservation professionals, build organizational capacity, or develop innovative public education and outreach initiatives, with awards of US $2,500 - US $10,000.

Historic preservation organizations in Maryland seeking to preserve buildings, sites, or communities significant to African American history and culture can apply for grants up to Up to US $250,000. The Maryland Historical Trust’s African American Heritage Preservation Program supports capital projects that protect and interpret African American heritage resources across the state.

Local governments and other eligible organizations in Maryland can apply for Maryland Historical Trust’s Historic Preservation Non-Capital grants, awarding up to US $75,000 for research, survey, planning, documentation, conservation, and educational activities. Projects may include preservation plans, historic resource surveys, outreach programs, and National Register nominations supporting historic preservation across the state.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits with community revitalization, housing, education, arts, or historic preservation projects in Priority Funding Areas can apply for the Community Investment Tax Credits program, with awards up to US $10,000 in tax credit allocations. Administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, this program helps leverage larger donations for local projects and services.