Preserving Black Churches

The Preserving Black Churches program is a major initiative of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This program is rooted in the legacy and resilience of historically Black Churches, which have historically served as crucial institutions for African American communities in the United States. Funded with philanthropic support, most notably from Lilly Endowment Inc., this $60 million initiative was created to support historic Black churches and their communities through preservation and restoration efforts. Since its inception in 2023, the program has provided significant assistance in reimagining and redeploying preservation strategies that reflect the cultural and historical importance of these sacred spaces. The grant supports a wide array of preservation activities including capital improvement projects, planning, programming and interpretation, organizational capacity building, and financial sustainability. Grants range from $50,000 to $500,000 and are open to churches with active congregations, as well as historic buildings being repurposed for community use. Specific activities funded may include building restoration, preservation of interior church features, development of interpretive programs, creation of preservation endowments, and strategic planning. Eligibility is extended to historically Black Churches, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies stewarding these sites. The program defines eligible churches based on architectural origin, congregational use, or historical relevance to African American heritage. Non-Christian Black congregations are also considered on a case-by-case basis. Eligible applicants can submit one letter of intent per project category and can receive only one grant type per cycle. Matching funds are generally not required, except in the Endowment and Financial Sustainability category which requires a 1:1 match. The application process begins with a Letter of Intent (LOI) due in Summer 2025, with the full application deadline to follow. Applicants must submit materials through the National Trust’s online system, including detailed responses to approximately 50 application questions, a project budget, and high-resolution photos. Applications are reviewed by December, with staff available for technical support during the process. Projects typically need to be completed within 12 to 36 months, depending on the category. Applications are evaluated based on criteria such as the historical significance of the site, impact of the proposed work, community support, and the sustainability of the project. The program also considers how the project can catalyze broader community benefit. Previous grant recipients include churches with key historical ties to civil rights, music, and cultural contributions, demonstrating the program’s emphasis on holistic community uplift through preservation. For questions, applicants may contact the grant team via email at actionfundgrants@savingplaces.org. Additional program information and the grant application portal are available at the National Trust for Historic Preservation's website, located at http://savingplaces.org. The main office is located at 600 14th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005, and can be reached at 202-588-6000 or toll-free at 800-944-6847.