MD Two Fifty Once in a Generation Grant Program

The MD Two Fifty Once in a Generation Grant Program is a commemorative funding initiative launched by the Maryland Two Fifty Commission to support local and regional 250th commemoration activities across Maryland. The program aligns with the nationwide Semiquincentennial—celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States—and seeks to empower counties and Baltimore City to develop inclusive, engaging, and historically grounded commemorative events. The Commission operates under the Maryland Department of Planning and serves to ensure that Maryland’s diverse history is represented meaningfully in the upcoming national milestone. Launched on November 24, 2025, the Once in a Generation grant program offers financial support of up to $15,000 per county, with a total funding pool of $360,000 available statewide. This funding is intended for counties participating in a local or regional 250 commission or committee. Notably, there is a strict limitation of one grant per county, and no matching funds are required to qualify. Activities supported by the grant must be free, open to the public, and commemorative in nature—these may include existing or new 4th of July celebrations, festivals, exhibitions, or creative programming. A key requirement is that any displays or exhibits created must remain publicly accessible through at least the end of 2026. Eligible applicants include Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City. These entities may authorize certain eligible organizations to apply on their behalf, including Maryland-based nonprofits in good standing, municipalities, Maryland Heritage Areas designated by the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, and in-state two- or four-year higher education institutions. Nonprofit designees must meet state and IRS compliance requirements, including possession of a 501(c)(3) determination letter, articles of incorporation, and proof of good standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation. Documentation verifying authorization and eligibility must be included in the application package. The application period opened on November 24, 2025, and will close on January 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applicants are encouraged to attend one of two virtual information sessions hosted by the Commission on December 4 or December 8, 2025. Applications must be submitted via a designated Google Form accessible on the Commission's website. Required components of the application include the event title, description, goals, timeline, budget using the Commission’s template, and supporting documents such as a W-9, audit or Form 990, board list, resumes of key personnel, and organizational financials. All submissions will be evaluated by an independent selection committee composed of members from the MD Two Fifty Commission. Review criteria focus on alignment with the Commission's Executive Order, historical significance, community engagement, and the lasting impact of proposed activities. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by February 26, 2026. The grant supports direct costs related to the proposed event, such as supplies and advertising. The MD Two Fifty Once in a Generation Grant Program serves as a strategic effort to ensure each Maryland community has the opportunity to share its unique narrative within the broader national story of the American Revolution. Through this investment, the state affirms its commitment to inclusive, accessible public history while preparing to commemorate a pivotal moment in the nation's history.

Ensure nonprofit designees meet SDAT and IRS eligibility; upload all supporting documents to avoid disqualification.