The Commonwealth History Fund is a grantmaking initiative established by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) to support meaningful history education and preservation efforts throughout the state of Virginia. With financial support from Dominion Energy and other donors, the Fund is designed to disburse approximately $400,000 annually, totaling nearly $2,000,000 in its first five years of operation. The program is managed by VMHC in partnership with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR).
Grants support a wide range of eligible projects, including restoration, preservation, rehabilitation, conservation, documentation, acquisition of historical objects or property, exhibitions, publications, infrastructure improvements, educational programming, planning, outreach, digitization, and website development. However, funds may not be used for endowments, general operating support, or advertising unless such costs are part of a larger eligible project.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations based in Virginia, state and federally recognized American Indian tribes, and local government agencies. Projects affiliated with political, partisan, or religious purposes, or those involving lobbying, are ineligible. Special consideration will be given to projects connected to the United States semiquincentennial, as part of VMHC’s America 250th Initiative, particularly those that reflect inclusive, long-term perspectives on American history.
Applications will be accepted from September 1 through September 30, 2025. Awards will be announced in early 2026. Grant recipients are required to begin work within six months of award notification. VMHC will disburse 50% of funds shortly after execution of award documents, with the remaining funds released based on a defined reimbursement schedule, including a final portion of 20%–50% to be held pending completion and submission of final reporting.
Projects will be evaluated based on their community and statewide impact, focus on underserved narratives, urgency, funding needs, feasibility, professional standards, and the qualifications of team members. While matching funds are not required, they are encouraged. Applicants may apply in consecutive years, although multi-year funding for a single project is not permitted.
Applications must be submitted electronically and include proof of eligibility, governing body details, project description with timeline and budget, and, if applicable, property owner consent. Endorsements are recommended but not required. For questions or submission instructions, applicants should contact HistoryFund@VirginiaHistory.org.
