The Linda and Jerry Bruckheimer Preservation Fund for Kentucky

The Linda and Jerry Bruckheimer Preservation Fund for Kentucky is administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a private nonprofit organization committed to protecting and promoting the preservation of historic places across the United States. This fund is specifically focused on preserving the cultural and historical fabric of Kentucky, including its historic buildings, landscapes, and communities. The fund offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, with a total of $13,000 in funding anticipated to be distributed annually from the endowment. These grants are intended to support new initiatives or supplement ongoing preservation efforts. Grant funds may be used for a variety of eligible activities including consultancy services, educational programming, public engagement campaigns, and the restoration or stabilization of historic properties. Some ineligible activities include academic research and general organizational overhead. Eligible applicants include public agencies, 501(c)(3) organizations, and other nonprofits, including those who have previously received financial assistance from the National Trust provided they are in good standing. A key eligibility criterion is membership in the Preservation Leadership Forum or Main Street America, although membership is not required at the time of application but must be obtained before funds are released. Applicants are also subject to limitations on the number of grants per organization and project phase within a given period. Applications are reviewed three times annually with deadlines on February 1, June 1, and October 1. The application becomes available approximately 6–8 weeks before each deadline through the National Trust's online grants portal. Applicants are generally notified within ten weeks of the application deadline. To apply, organizations must submit several materials including high-resolution images, proof of nonprofit status, a letter of property owner consent if applicable, and a completed application form that includes a detailed budget. Applicants must match the grant amount on a one-to-one basis, using either cash or in-kind contributions. Certain conditions also apply, such as prohibitions against using funds for lobbying and requirements for conformance with federal preservation standards. The selection process is based on factors including the historic significance of the site, community involvement, long-term sustainability, and the applicant’s ability to execute the proposed project. For additional assistance, applicants are encouraged to contact the National Trust grants staff. General inquiries can be directed to [email protected], or via phone at 202-588-6000 or toll-free at 800-944-6847. Applications can be accessed through the National Trust's grant application portal and applicants are advised to add [email protected] to their address books to ensure receipt of communications.