The Linda and Jerry Bruckheimer Preservation Fund for Kentucky

The Linda and Jerry Bruckheimer Preservation Fund for Kentucky is a grant initiative under the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving historic places across the United States. This fund specifically supports the preservation of historic buildings, landscapes, and communities throughout Kentucky. Funded through an endowment, it is anticipated that approximately $13,000 in total grant funding is made available annually. Individual grant awards range between $2,500 and $10,000, designed to assist a variety of preservation-related efforts within the state. The primary goal of this fund is to aid organizations and entities in protecting and maintaining significant historic sites within Kentucky. Eligible uses of funding include obtaining expert consultation in fields such as archaeology, architecture, planning, engineering, and education; sponsoring preservation workshops and conferences; implementing innovative education programs related to historic preservation; creating and disseminating printed or digital media to support preservation efforts; and executing restoration and stabilization work on designated historic structures or sites, including archaeological preservation. Eligibility for the grant is limited to public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and 501(c)(3) entities. Importantly, applicants that have previously received financial support from the National Trust remain eligible, provided they are in good standing with previous grant requirements. However, applicants can receive no more than three grants within a two-year period, and only one grant per organization and project phase will be considered in a single grant round. While membership in the Preservation Leadership Forum or Main Street America is not required to apply, it becomes a prerequisite for funding disbursement if awarded. Matching funds are a crucial condition of this grant. The applicant must be able to match the grant amount on a one-to-one basis through either cash or in-kind contributions. Acceptable match sources include private or public funds, event registration income, or donations of labor and materials. Notably, other National Trust funding may not be used to fulfill this match requirement. All projects must begin within six months of receiving the grant or a formal extension must be requested. Matching and grant funds cannot be used for lobbying activities, and consultants must be pre-approved by the National Trust. Projects exceeding $50,000 in services require three competitive bids. Applications are accepted tri-annually with deadlines on February 1, June 1, and October 1. The application portal opens six to eight weeks before each deadline, and applicants are notified of funding decisions approximately ten weeks after submission. Required application components include high-resolution digital images, IRS tax-exempt documentation, a letter of consent from the property owner (if applicable), and a detailed budget. Selected applicants will be asked to sign a contract and are required to submit a final project report and financial accounting within one year of receiving funds. For further inquiries or clarification regarding eligibility, applicants are encouraged to contact the grants staff via email at [email protected]. Phone support is also available at 202-588-6000 or toll-free at 800-944-6847. The application can be accessed via the National Trust grants portal and uses the same form as the National Trust Preservation Fund. Projects located within Kentucky will be automatically considered for the Bruckheimer Preservation Fund.

Ensure matching funds and membership requirements are met before submission; initiate early due to firm deadlines