The Institutional and Financial Stabilization Grants for History and Humanities Organizations are administered by the New Jersey Cultural Trust in collaboration with the New Jersey Historical Commission, both divisions of the New Jersey Department of State. This public-private partnership, established by legislation in July 2000, aims to provide long-term, supplemental funding to arts, history, and humanities organizations in New Jersey to promote operational and financial stability. The Cultural Trust’s funding is generated from interest on a permanent investment fund, which is capitalized through legislative appropriations and private donations, including revenue from the hotel/motel occupancy fee.
This Fiscal Year 2026 grant cycle specifically supports institutional and financial stabilization projects for organizations with a primary focus on history and/or humanities. Eligible projects must address a specific stability or capacity challenge through one discrete and targeted project. Project categories include working capital or cash reserve funds, debt or deficit reduction, strategic planning, technology upgrades, capital equipment purchases, staff or board development, and the addition of a new staff position. Projects involving DEAI training and audience evaluation are especially encouraged this round.
Applicants may request up to $40,000 in funding, though typical awards range from $10,000 to $40,000. While there is no minimum amount or matching requirement, applicants must show how they will fund any costs exceeding the grant request. All funds must be used between January 1 and December 31, 2026, and cannot support previously incurred expenses or operating costs. Only one application per organization is allowed, and it must be for a single primary project category.
Eligibility is restricted to New Jersey-based nonprofit organizations that are qualified by the Cultural Trust. This requires demonstrating nonprofit status, a history-focused mission, at least four years of incorporation and operation, and sound financial oversight. Applicants must also be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs as a charity. Importantly, organizations must submit an online qualification application by June 11, 2025, if not previously qualified.
The application process includes submitting a Declaration of Intent (DOI) by June 11, 2025, through the SAGE system, followed by a full application due July 17, 2025. Required components include a project narrative, budget forms, organizational and staff details, and relevant support materials. Evaluation is based on the significance of the identified challenge, project suitability and feasibility, alignment with strategic goals, and the potential for lasting impact. Assistance is available through staff consultations, office hours, and virtual workshops.
Grant disbursements are made in two parts: 75% upon contract signing and 25% upon project completion and final report approval. Final reports are due within 30 days of the project’s end and must include financial documentation, narrative reflection, and visual evidence. Additional annual reports are required for recipients funding new staff positions or reserve funds for four years post-award.
