Unfortunately, due to uncertainty surrounding future federal funding for the National Heritage Area Program, we are forced to pause our 2025 Partnership Grant program. We are optimistic that we can resume the program later this year as we receive more clarity and assurance regarding federal funding priorities. We apologize for the inconvenience this causes and appreciate your understanding.

 

The Essex Heritage Partnership Grant Program is a $2,000 matching grant program created to foster and support the stewardship activities of municipalities and organizations that share Essex Heritage’s mission to preserve and enhance the historic, cultural and natural resources of the Essex National Heritage Area (Essex County). Impacting many in the region, the 26-year old program has invested more than $1.6 million in support of the region’s nationally significant heritage. Applications for the 2025 Partnership Grant Program are now open, and will remain open until February 21, 2025 at 11:59pm.

The program comprises four categories:

Education

Creating or further developing educational opportunities for youth. Examples include but are not limited to historical research projects, after-school programs, natural science programs, building research and site visits, documenting oral histories and developing digital resources.

Preservation

Preserving or enhancing historic structures, landscapes and cultural resources. Examples include but are not limited to preservation planning studies (historic resource inventory, historic structure report, structural assessment, paint analysis, historic landscape documentation and design), exterior and interior rehabilitation or restoration (cladding, roofs, windows, masonry, paint, floors, wall coverings, decorative elements), and historic landscape restoration (fences, walls, plant material, installation).

Interpretation

Increasing awareness and understanding of the region’s heritage. Examples include but are not limited to signage, brochures, maps, exhibits, public art installations, performance arts, and audio-visual programs.

Accessibility

Provide accommodations for programming and facilities accessibility such as hiring interpreters, using/developing audio or visual aids, or installing mobility devices.

Over the life of the program, Essex Heritage has been able to provide matching grants to organizations in every community within Essex County.

For more information on the Partnership Grant Program, please contact Charles Smith, Manager of Future Resources
CharlesS@EssexHeritage.org