Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Grant Program

The Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program is a competitive state-administered initiative that aims to stimulate private investment in the redevelopment of historically significant buildings throughout Ohio. Managed by the Ohio Department of Development through its Office of Strategic Business Investments, the program provides tax credits as an incentive to owners and long-term lessees undertaking substantial rehabilitation work on historic structures. Since its inception, the program has completed 35 rounds of funding and has awarded tax credits to 742 projects across 96 communities, resulting in the rehabilitation of 997 buildings. These efforts are projected to leverage over $10.9 billion in private investment and federal tax credits. This tax credit offers up to 25% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures incurred during a certified rehabilitation project, with a cap of $5 million per project. The tax credit can be applied to state financial institutions, foreign and domestic insurance premiums, or individual income taxes. Projects certified prior to June 30, 2021, may also apply the credit to commercial activity taxes, while those certified after that date are excluded from this benefit. The program excludes properties intended for single-family or multi-family residential condominiums, maintaining a focus on projects that promote economic revitalization and community development. Eligibility is limited to owners and long-term lessees of historically designated buildings. Qualifying properties must be listed individually on the National Register of Historic Places or contribute to recognized historic districts, including those certified by the National Park Service or a Certified Local Government. The designation may also be granted by a Certified Local Government under local landmark guidelines. Applications are accepted twice per year, typically in March and September. Each application cycle requires several steps, beginning with a mandatory pre-application meeting with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). For the Spring 2026 cycle, pre-application meeting requests must be submitted by January 30, 2026, with finalized meetings held no later than February 13, 2026. Applicants must also submit an "Intent to Apply" form by February 13, 2026, and complete all historic documentation submissions by February 27, 2026. The full application and fee are due by March 31, 2026, followed by a review process extending through June 1, 2026. Awards will be announced by June 30, 2026. The program is recurring, with a Fall 2026 cycle scheduled to follow. That round mirrors the process and deadlines of the Spring cycle, beginning with a pre-application meeting request due by July 31, 2026, and culminating in application submissions by September 30, 2026. Final award announcements are expected by December 31, 2026. All applicants must adhere to the formal timeline and ensure compliance with documentation and meeting prerequisites to be eligible for consideration. For additional information, applicants may contact Lisa Brownell, Program Manager at the Office of Strategic Business Investments, via phone at (614) 752-2345 or email at [email protected]. This program represents a robust opportunity for stakeholders committed to preserving Ohio’s historic architectural heritage while advancing economic growth and community engagement.