Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area Announces New “Small Changes” Grant Funding Opportunity
BIG CHANGES are in the works for ALTSCHA, Inc., as it transitions to its new brand, “Chesapeake Crossroads,” with expanded boundaries that includes many new partners.
SMALL CHANGES funds can assist our small heritage-related partner organizations (annual budgets of $100,000 or less) with this transition as well. The vision for this grant fund is to give a “boost” to smaller organizations, especially those that are recently-established, that are experiencing a pressing need that, if met, will allow them to increase their effectiveness. Small Changes Grant funds could provide opportunities to strengthen the organizations, create new messaging, marketing, and enhancement of the sites and their programming. The maximum grant award is $500; no match is required.
In recognition (celebration) of the 20th anniversary of the Four Rivers Heritage Area (ALTSCHA) and the launch of the new Chesapeake Crossroads brand, Patricia Barland, former Board Chair of Four Rivers, has donated $2,000 for the advancement of heritage area programs and support of small and recently-established partner organizations in the expanded heritage area. A matching donation to this fund has been made by Board Secretary, Dr. Jean Russo. The new “Small Changes” funding will be available to heritage-related nonprofit partners as this transition takes place. “I am so proud of the accomplishments and success of the heritage area and congratulate the Board and Executive Director Dr. Carol Benson in leading the Heritage Area to new and expanded experiences for visitors and to the heritage partners who share their sites and stories,” said Barland.
Examples of eligible projects include:
• Professional advancement –- offset fees for training/workshops, including marketing classes; digital media and communications classes; small museum workshops; Maryland Nonprofit workshops; training on DEI; and more
• Consultant fees — for planning, Board training, financial assistance, environmental workshops
• Stipends for guest speakers
• Assistance with applications for National Register, Historic landmarks and other historic designations
• Assistance with archeological investigations
• Assistance with research for heritage tourism products
Small Changes Grants shall not be used for routine administrative expenses or for capital projects.
Non-profit heritage-related organizations are eligible to apply, for projects to take place within our designated boundaries. Maximum grant award is $500. No match is required; the funds will be remitted once grant is approved. A final report is required following completion of the project.
Download the Grant Application and Guidelines here: