Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant

The Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant, administered by the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries within the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), is a competitive funding opportunity designed to support the preservation of Oregon’s historic cemeteries. With a mission centered on historic preservation and education, the grant program aims to aid cemeteries that house at least one burial from 75 or more years ago. This initiative supports projects across a range of categories: protection and security, restoration and preservation, education and training, and research and interpretation. These efforts seek to preserve historical elements, foster community involvement, and ensure the long-term stewardship of these important cultural landmarks. Eligible projects under the grant include physical preservation efforts such as skilled monument repair, conservation of fencing or curbing, and landscape restoration. Other qualified activities include documentation, mapping, interpretive signage, and the development of educational programs. Funding may also be used for security measures like fencing or lighting. Although the grant does not require a matching fund contribution, applicants are encouraged to seek local support through donations, in-kind services, and volunteer time. This not only broadens the program's reach but also enhances an application's competitiveness by demonstrating community engagement. The application process is managed through the OPRD Grants Online system. Applicants must register on the platform (if not already registered) to access and submit the application. The portal allows users to save and edit applications before final submission. While registration may take up to three days, applicants are urged to plan ahead. Required materials include budget details, cemetery photos, vicinity maps, and a completed W-9. Optional but encouraged items include expert resumes, letters of support or commitment, and documentation of previous preservation work. Applications must be submitted online no later than 11:59 p.m. on April 9, 2026. Applications are evaluated in a multi-stage process that includes a technical review, a committee review and scoring, and final selection by the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries. Key criteria include the applicant's capacity to complete the project and the project's effectiveness in addressing historical and preservation needs. Additional considerations include geographic diversity, long-range planning alignment, and the inclusion of historically marginalized voices. Projects that have strong community support or highlight underrepresented histories are prioritized. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of May 2026. Award agreements must be finalized, and approved workplans in place by the start of the performance period on July 1, 2026. All funded work must be completed by April 30, 2027. The grant is reimbursable, meaning recipients are paid after submitting proof of completed work and associated expenses. Interim and final progress reports are required and must include photographs, evidence of expenditures, and narrative descriptions of the project’s status and outcomes. For assistance throughout the application and reporting process, applicants may contact the program coordinator, Kuri Gill, at [email protected] or 503-986-0685. A free online workshop is also offered on February 24, 2026, to guide applicants through the program, application components, and evaluation criteria. This session will be recorded and made available for two weeks for those who register. All interested individuals, nonprofits, schools, governments, and organizations working with qualifying cemeteries are encouraged to apply.

Projects with clear, prioritized work plans, realistic budgets, and community or long-range planning are prioritized.