Certified Local Government Mini-Grants

The Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office (PA SHPO) administers the Certified Local Government (CLG) Mini-Grant Program, which provides funding to Pennsylvania municipalities for historic preservation projects. These grants aim to support small-scale, time-sensitive initiatives that help local governments strengthen their preservation programs. Funding is provided in part by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, and is managed by PA SHPO. The Mini-Grant program is designed to provide municipalities with the resources needed to implement preservation solutions in a timely manner​. The purpose of the CLG Mini-Grant program is to help municipalities address urgent historic preservation needs, develop policies, and enhance local capacity. These grants can be used for a variety of activities, including updating historic resource surveys, creating preservation plans, revising ordinances, conducting revitalization studies, and implementing public education efforts. Mini-Grants are intended to be used for projects that can be completed within three to six months and result in tangible work products​. Mini-Grants have a maximum award amount of $7,500, with a required 25% cash match from the applicant. This match does not need to be secured at the time of application but must be confirmed within 60 days of receiving an award. The application process is open on a rolling basis, with submissions accepted throughout the year and reviewed monthly. Only one Mini-Grant may be active per municipality at a time, though recipients may hold an open project grant or scholarship concurrently. Additionally, municipalities must sign and return a Master CLG Grant Contract before applying​. Eligible applicants are Certified Local Governments (CLGs) in Pennsylvania that comply with certification agreements and meet performance standards. Projects must align with local preservation goals and should address specific needs, such as implementing recommendations from Periodic Program Evaluations or meeting ongoing CLG performance standards. Priority is given to projects that support PA SHPO’s key focus areas, including advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, and acquiring or updating survey information about historic places​. Applications must be submitted via email and should include required attachments and a signature page. Applicants must consult with their regional Community Preservation Coordinator at least ten business days before submitting an application. Once submitted, applications are reviewed within 30 days, and funding decisions are communicated within 10 business days of review. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with PA SHPO allocating up to $25,000 annually for Mini-Grants and Scholarships combined​. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must first pay for project expenses before requesting reimbursement. Grant funds must be spent on allowable costs such as planning studies, ordinance revisions, cultural resource surveys, and public education initiatives. Grantees must also comply with all applicable state and federal regulations, including non-discrimination policies. Progress and final reports are required to document project completion and ensure compliance with grant requirements​.