Wheeling Heritage’s Partnership Grant Program

Wheeling Heritage’s Partnership Grant Program supports projects that contribute to the revitalization of the Wheeling Heritage Area by focusing on historic preservation, community development, and the arts. Wheeling Heritage, a local organization committed to preserving Wheeling’s cultural and historical assets, manages this grant initiative to encourage creative, inclusive, and community-led efforts. The program is specifically tailored to benefit the city of Wheeling, West Virginia, with eligibility limited to projects within the city limits. Proposals that align with Wheeling’s historical themes are prioritized during evaluation. The Partnership Grant Program funds five distinct categories of projects: Education & Interpretation, Small Business Development, Artist, Recreation, and Fairs & Festivals. Each grant type offers up to $1,000 for specific purposes. Education & Interpretation grants support projects that enhance public understanding of Wheeling’s history, such as tours or events that interpret the city's heritage. Small Business Development grants help organizations and entrepreneurs with costs like equipment, signage, branding, and other vital operational needs—especially those based in the downtown historic district. Artist grants are intended for individuals or groups creating projects that uplift the Wheeling Heritage Area through visual, performing, or multimedia arts. Funding can cover supplies, studio space, travel to workshops, or similar project-related expenses. Recreation grants focus on improving the quality of life through public outdoor activities and infrastructure. Projects using trails or city parks are encouraged and must provide open access to the community. Finally, the Fairs & Festivals category supports both grassroots and larger events that reflect Wheeling’s cultural and historical vibrancy. Grants cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, and the remaining 25% match must be provided by the applicant. This match may be in the form of monetary contributions or in-kind services. Applicants may include individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and informal neighborhood groups. Partnerships and joint applications are welcomed. Nonprofit status is not a requirement, but all applicants must demonstrate administrative capacity and fiscal responsibility. To apply, applicants should first contact Wheeling Heritage staff to discuss their project and ensure funding availability. A budget worksheet and W-9 tax form must be submitted with the application. Applications are reviewed by an ad hoc committee for alignment with guidelines and relevance to Wheeling’s heritage themes. The current grant cycle runs from July 2 to July 31, with all applications due online by 5 p.m. on the final day. Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with awards subsequently announced. For assistance, applicants may contact Wheeling Heritage at info@wheelingheritage.org or by phone at 304-232-3087. This grant cycle represents an opportunity for local creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to directly contribute to preserving and advancing Wheeling’s identity through thoughtful, place-based programming.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Wheeling Heritage staff to verify funding availability before submitting.