Community Programs

The America 250 North Carolina Local Grants program, administered by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), is a state-funded initiative aligned with the 2023-2025 state budget (S.L. 2023-134). The program was developed to support diverse projects across North Carolina in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the United States. America 250 NC aims to energize a broad spectrum of public, educational, artistic, and historical programs throughout the state's 100 counties, fostering a deeper understanding of North Carolina’s role in the Revolutionary War and the founding of the nation. By offering financial support to local governments and nonprofit organizations, the initiative encourages community-level engagement in commemorative efforts and the celebration of shared heritage. The grants are intended to fund a variety of eligible activities, including public art and murals tied to America 250 NC themes, educational exhibits (physical and online), wayside signage, local historical markers, community events, and curriculum-aligned educational outreach. Projects must be accessible, free to the public, and demonstrate a connection to the themes set forth by America 250 NC. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to highlight underrepresented historical narratives, including contributions from African Americans, American Indians, women, children, Loyalists, and others often omitted from dominant historical accounts. Projects may also include research, publications, and other scholarly outputs designed to enhance local and statewide historical understanding. Funding requests for the program must fall between $2,500 and $30,000. Matching requirements apply based on the county's economic designation: Tier 1 counties must contribute a 10% match, while Tier 2 and 3 counties must contribute a 15% match. Matches can be met through cash or documented in-kind contributions, including staff or volunteer hours, donated equipment, or the use of facilities. Grant funds will be disbursed in phases aligned with specific deliverables and benchmarks outlined in the application and final grant agreement. Projects may begin no earlier than January 2025, and fundable expenses must fall within the 2025–2026 calendar years. The application process requires several components, including a completed online application form, a detailed budget spreadsheet and narrative, a conflict of interest/ethics policy, proof of property owner permission for projects involving physical installations, and a resolution confirming America 250 NC County Committee status. Non-governmental applicants must also include an IRS nonprofit determination letter and a statement of all state funds previously received. All proposed materials, particularly those involving historical content, must undergo review and approval by the America 250 NC team prior to publication or installation. Evaluation criteria include the clarity and feasibility of project deliverables, projected community impact, alignment with America 250 NC themes, and plans for long-term sustainability. The application should clearly outline a timeline, identify project leads, and provide a communications plan that acknowledges America 250 NC support. Partnerships are encouraged and considered a strength in the review process. While no fixed application deadline is listed, the current grant round covers expenses beginning in January 2025, indicating an anticipated recurring cycle. Applicants are encouraged to contact the America 250 NC team at [email protected] with questions about eligibility or project design.

Include partners and serve wide audiences; detailed timelines and deliverables improve application strength.