National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives
National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives supports repositories with disaster-damaged or at-risk collections, funding recovery services, supplies, and labor to stabilize and recover archival materials.
Funder: Society of American Archivists Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (applications within 18 months following a disaster)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 USD per grant; additional requests may be considered if funds remain available
Summary: Supports immediate stabilization and recovery of damaged or at-risk archival collections following major disasters.
Key Information: Any repository holding archival records or special collections may apply; SSA or SAA membership is not required.
Description
The National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives is administered by the Society of American Archivists Foundation to help repositories stabilize and recover archival collections affected by major disasters. Established jointly by the Society of Southwest Archivists and the Society of American Archivists in 2005 after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the fund subsequently expanded to support recovery regardless of region or repository type.
The program focuses on immediate recovery rather than long-term or detailed preservation. It supports direct recovery of damaged or at-risk materials, recovery services, supplies, and costs associated with volunteers or other recovery laborers. Funding is directed primarily toward repositories in the United States, including the District of Columbia and territories; non-U.S. entities may be considered under exceptional circumstances.
