Richland County Historic Preservation Grants

The Richland County Conservation Commission (RCCC) offers Historic Preservation Grants aimed at preserving, restoring, and rehabilitating buildings or sites of historical significance within Richland County, South Carolina. This grant program also supports educational and research initiatives that promote awareness and understanding of the county's rich historical heritage. RCCC is a local entity responsible for promoting conservation efforts, and through this grant initiative, it seeks to ensure that historic assets are preserved for the benefit of current and future generations. Grants of up to $50,000 are available, and all proposed projects must align with the broader goals of historical preservation and education in Richland County. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, educational institutions, and commercial entities. A critical requirement is that these organizations must have been operational for at least one year prior to submitting an application. Importantly, private landowners with buildings not accessible to the public are not eligible. For project eligibility, the subject property must already be recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, deemed eligible for such status, or listed by the Richland County Bicentennial Committee or local municipalities. Properties not currently recognized must submit a Historic Building Eligibility Application for approval before applying. Allowable uses of grant funds include costs associated with preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation efforts, as well as consultant fees for feasibility studies, condition assessments, and architectural planning. Educational and research programming that highlights local history and preservation is also eligible. Ineligible expenses include routine maintenance, new construction, previously completed work, indirect costs, food and travel expenses, and landscaping. Applicants are expected to adhere to RCCC Historic Preservation Standards and Guidelines for all projects involving physical structures. This grant program operates on an 80% / 20% matching basis. Applicants are required to contribute 20% of the total project cost, which may include in-kind services if rates are specified and deemed reasonable. Grant awards are disbursed as reimbursements upon submission and approval of invoices, and no funds will be reimbursed for activities completed prior to the signing of the grant agreement. Budgets must be specific and based on a minimum of three quotes per line item to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency. The application window for the upcoming cycle opens on December 1, 2025, and closes on February 1, 2026. Short presentations to the Historic Committee will be held in March 2026, followed by a review and recommendation process. Approved grants will be awarded in July 2026, and projects may commence only after official agreements are signed. All funded projects must be completed by June 15, 2027, with a final reporting deadline of June 30, 2027. Quarterly reports are due in October, January, and April. Applications must be submitted online via Zoom Grants. Hard copy, faxed, incomplete, or late submissions will not be considered. Applicants must also submit electronic photos in .jpg format. For support, technical questions should be directed to Zoom Grants’ helpdesk, while general inquiries can be made to John McKenzie at the RCCC via email or phone. All projects must visibly acknowledge RCCC funding. Materials submitted are subject to public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Nonprofit applicants must also provide a current Charitable Organization Registration letter from the Secretary of State.

Highlight public benefit and historical significance; follow budget quote rules strictly; prepare for committee presentation