NASHVILLE, TN (WGNS News) - The Tennessee Historical Commission is opening its next round of Federal Historic Preservation Fund grants, with applications accepted from January 19 through February 28, 2026. The annual program supports efforts across the state to document, protect, and restore historic and archaeological resources. Grants reimburse 60 percent of eligible project costs, while applicants provide a 40 percent match.
In the most recent cycle, the Commission awarded 21 matching grants totaling more than $1.1 million to nonprofits, municipalities, universities, and civic organizations. Those funds helped communities large and small preserve significant structures, conduct archaeological surveys, and strengthen local planning efforts. Awards for the upcoming fiscal year will depend on federal funding levels.
Miranda Montgomery, State Historic Preservation Officer and Interim Executive Director of the Tennessee Historical Commission, said the program remains one of the agency’s most effective tools for safeguarding Tennessee’s heritage. She noted that the grants help communities document their history while restoring places that anchor local identity.
Projects fall into two major categories: survey and planning, or restoration. Survey and planning grants support work such as historic resource surveys, National Register of Historic Places nominations, and the development of local design guidelines or preservation plans. Restoration grants focus on preserving or restoring key features of buildings already listed in the National Register. The Commission also gives priority to projects that align with the goals outlined in the state’s historic preservation plan and demonstrate clear public benefit.
Applications must be submitted through the TDEC Grant Management System, where applicants can also find detailed instructions and eligibility information. The Commission encourages early preparation, especially for communities applying for the first time.
Additional information about the Tennessee Historical Commission and its programs is available on the agency’s website. Questions about the grant process may be directed to Holly Barnett at holly.m.barnett@tn.gov.
