As Michigan prepares to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary, the state is offering a significant opportunity for historical organizations through a newly announced grant program. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources unveiled the second round of the America250MI History Grant Program, which aims to distribute a total of $2 million to projects that explore the rich history of Michigan.
The application process opens on January 15, 2026, with the announcement of grantees expected in March 2026. This initiative follows a successful first round earlier this year, which saw nearly 100 applicants vying for funds exceeding $2.2 million. Although demand was high, the program allocated over $967,000 to various projects across more than two dozen counties.
Funding Opportunities for Diverse Projects
The America250MI History Grant Program aims to support a wide range of initiatives, including educational programming, capital improvements, and historical exhibits. Eligible applicants include tribal governments, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, with the requirement that at least one history-focused organization participate in the proposal.
Sandra Clark, the director of the Michigan History Center, highlighted the need for ongoing historical exploration, stating, “There’s always more history to explore.” This sentiment reflects the program’s objective to encourage diverse narratives and topics related to Michigan’s past.
Larry J. Wagenaar, executive director and CEO of the Historical Society of Michigan, noted that the successful projects from the initial round covered a variety of impactful subjects. “From World War II and Michigan shipwrecks to labor history and immigration, we are looking forward to more projects that shed light on these important themes,” he said.
Grant Tiers and Application Details
The grants are structured in three tiers, allowing for flexibility based on project needs. Tier 1 offers funding between $2,500 and $5,000, while Tier 2 ranges from $5,001 to $25,000. Tier 3, the most substantial, provides funding from $25,001 to $50,000, with no matching requirements for Tier 1, but requiring a 15% match for Tier 2 and a 30% match for Tier 3.
Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the program’s five guiding themes: Unfinished Revolutions, Power of Place, American Experiment, We the People, and Doing History. This alignment is designed to ensure that funded projects contribute meaningfully to the overarching narrative of America’s 250-year journey.
As Michigan embarks on this celebration of its history, the America250MI History Grant Program stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving and sharing its cultural heritage.
