Property owners frequently reach out to us seeking financial assistance and we are eager to connect them with the resources they need to preserve their historic buildings. Funding options for preservation projects vary depending on the property owner and type of project.
Being prepared is essential when seeking funding for preservation projects. Having a project proposal to share with potential funders helps you effectively communicate your vision. This should include:
- An explanation of the project’s vision
- A brief history of the property
- A concise description of the property’s current or intended use
- An outline of the repair/restoration work, including cost estimates, and a project schedule
Preservation Funding Webinar Series
Check out the recordings from our webinar series, Funding Preservation Projects, supported by the Adirondack Community Foundation’s Generous Acts Program:
Tax Credits
Historic tax credits are among the most widely accessible resources for properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) must be contacted prior to beginning a repair/rehabilitation project in order to benefit from these programs. Learn more about historic tax credits here.
Grants
Public and private grants are more commonly available for public-facing preservation projects. Below is a list
- National Grid Economic Development Grant Programs
- National Park Service Grant Programs
- NYS Assembly Grants Action News
- NYS Environmental Protection Fund: for buildings listed on the National Register, or within a National Register Historic District, and owned by a nonprofit or municipality
- New York Main Street Program
- The New York Landmarks Conservancy, Sacred Sites Program: for historic religious properties listed on the National Register and in active use as a place of worship
Crowdfunding
Community-wide fundraising campaigns are an effective approach for preservation projects, and are used by most preservation organizations as a means of funding programs and capital projects. The advantage to this approach is that it involves the entire community in an effort to protect and preserve a significant local landmark. Community fundraising campaigns depend on the project’s vision and the current and future use of the property.