Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation

The Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation was established in July 1994 in honor of Johanna Favrot’s 80th birthday. The fund is administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The fund aims to support projects that preserve historic environments to enhance appreciation for the nation’s cultural heritage and improve the livability of communities across the country. The grants are highly competitive, and awards typically range between $2,500 and $15,000. The funding is intended to support planning activities and educational efforts related to historic preservation. Eligible uses of the grants include consultant services in architecture, planning, or fundraising; production of educational materials; organizing preservation workshops or conferences; and restoration, stabilization, or preservation of historic sites, structures, archaeological areas, and cultural landscapes. Ineligible uses include academic research, historic resource surveys, staff salaries, organizational overhead, and expenses incurred prior to the award. Eligibility is limited to public agencies, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and other nonprofit organizations. Individuals and for-profit entities may apply only if the project involves a National Historic Landmark. Only one grant per project phase and per organization will be awarded in a single grant round, and no more than three grants may be awarded to a single grantee over two years. Applicants must be affiliated with specific membership tiers of the National Trust or Main Street America programs and must become members if selected for funding. Applicants must also be able to provide a dollar-for-dollar cash match for the grant amount. Applications are submitted online through the National Trust’s grant application system. The application form requires various supporting materials, such as high-resolution images, IRS determination letters, consultant resumes, property owner consent letters, and optionally, endorsement letters. All applicants must complete a detailed budget outlining expenses and projected revenue. The next application deadline is March 3, 2025, with awards announced on July 1, 2025. The application portal opens approximately eight weeks before the deadline. Proposals are evaluated based on multiple criteria, including the historical significance of the property, the urgency and feasibility of the project, availability of matching funds, community support, timeline, potential long-term impact, and applicant’s experience in preservation. Projects that can be replicated or catalyze further preservation efforts are given special consideration. For questions or assistance with the application process, applicants can contact the National Trust grants staff at grants@savingplaces.org. The main contact address for the National Trust is 600 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005, with general inquiries directed to info@savingplaces.org or by phone at 202-588-6000.