Historic Community Buildings Grant Program
Forecasted
Historic Community Buildings Grant Program supports Maine nonprofits and government units with preservation and restoration construction to sustain historic buildings that serve community life.
This grant was recently updated
Round 2 of the Historic Community Buildings Grant Program is now closed. The funder removed the application checklist and submission instructions.
Funder: Maine Historic Preservation Commission
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Final applications, projected)
Funding Amounts: Round 2 awards: $25,000–$500,000, covering up to 75% of eligible project costs
Summary: Supports preservation and restoration construction projects for Maine’s historic community buildings.
Key Information: The required 25% match must come from private or nonprofit sources, not government funds.
Description
The Maine Historic Preservation Commission administers this program to preserve and restore historic buildings that support Maine’s social, educational, and cultural life. Funding comes from a $10 million bond approved by Maine voters in November 2024, with distribution anticipated across three grant rounds. The program funds construction rather than standalone planning, research, assessments, or preparation of drawings and specifications.
Eligible buildings include libraries, museums, educational and governmental buildings, meeting halls, churches, and entertainment venues. Buildings must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places or nominated by the Commission. Projects connect preservation work with continuing maintenance and public benefit through stewardship or preservation agreements. Selection considers preservation urgency, project readiness, community use and support, and applicants’ ability to manage construction and reimbursement funding.
