Diamonds in the Rough Grant

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant, administered by the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) under Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), is designed to assist in the restoration or reconstruction of building facades that have undergone significant alteration over time. This initiative seeks to return structures to their original historic appearance, thereby enhancing the potential for these buildings to qualify for local or national historic register designation. The program falls under the broader umbrella of the Preserving Oregon Grant Program, reflecting the state’s commitment to preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. The primary objective of the Diamonds in the Rough Grant is to support façade restoration or reconstruction of buildings where substantial portions of the historic facade are believed to still exist under modern materials, or where historic photos and original design documentation provide a clear basis for accurate restoration. The program prioritizes properties with "heavily modified primary facades" and discourages speculative or generically designed work. All funded work must adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Properties. Projects with new additions are not eligible, nor are those seeking to leverage federal rehabilitation tax credits. However, properties enrolled in Oregon’s Special Assessment of Historic Properties program may still qualify, provided they meet the primary facade alteration criterion. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and private property owners. Each project must demonstrate clear historical evidence of the original structure and a significant need for restoration. Higher priority is granted to commercial or public buildings located within Certified Local Government communities, designated Main Street areas, or recognized local or National Register historic districts. The program is competitive, and projects are evaluated based on the preservation or restoration of character-defining features, clarity and realism of the work plan and cost estimates, and community need or benefit. Grants are available for up to $20,000 and must be matched 1:1 by the applicant. The match can be provided through cash contributions, in-kind donations, or volunteer time, with the latter valued at Oregon’s minimum wage unless documented as professional services. Grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis, contingent upon submission of required documentation, including photographs and proof of expenses. For work exceeding $25,000, at least three bids or estimates are required. Projects must start after July 1, 2026, following the execution of grant agreements and approved workplans, and must be completed by April 30, 2027. The application must be submitted online through the OPRD Grants Online system by May 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Applicants must create an account on the platform if they have not already done so. Additional materials required include a detailed budget, property photos, any available historic documentation, and a completed IRS W-9 form. The grant coordinator may review applications submitted before the deadline and provide feedback as time allows. Technical assistance and translation support are also available. Applications undergo a technical review followed by scoring from a committee, with final award decisions made by the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation during a public meeting. Notifications will be sent by the end of June 2026. Questions about the program and its requirements should be directed to Kuri Gill at [email protected] or 503-986-0685. A free online grant workshop will be held on February 25, 2026, to help applicants understand the process and requirements; registration is required to access the session and subsequent recording.