By Oregon Historical Society

Portland, OR — The America 250 Oregon Commission, in partnership with Oregon Heritage and the Oregon Historical Society, is excited to announce the Oregon 250 Grant Program, supporting projects that commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. This grant program helps organizations create inclusive, community-focused projects that highlight Oregon’s diverse histories, traditions, and cultures.

Eligible organizations — including nonprofits, local governments, public schools, universities, colleges, and federally recognized tribes in Oregon — may apply for grants of up to $5,000. Funding can support events, exhibitions, educational programming, collections development, research, and interpretation. Projects must align with the mission of America 250 Oregon and one or more of its seven guideposts, which are:

• To inspire Oregonians to participate in the work of forming a more perfect union.
• To highlight the importance of civics and history education in building a better future.
• To highlight the work of Oregon’s many history and heritage organizations.
• To encourage a robust, thorough, and honest examination of our collective history.
• To celebrate the unique traditions, arts, and cultures of communities throughout Oregon.
• To honor the service and sacrifice made by Oregon’s veterans.
• To celebrate the power of place through Oregon’s remarkable landscapes and scenic beauty.

A total of $100,000 in funding is available, with 50% dedicated to rural communities. This funding was provided by the Oregon State Legislature to the Oregon Historical Society for the purpose of supporting the work of the America 250 Oregon Commission.

“We are grateful to the Oregon State Legislature for providing funds that will encourage Oregonians across the state to create opportunities to commemorate this once-in-a-generation moment in our nation’s history,” said Kerry Tymchuk, Chair of the America 250 Oregon Commission and Executive Director of the Oregon Historical Society.

Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible projects, with two funding cycles:

• Cycle 1: September 15–November 1, 2025
• Cycle 2: January 1–March 1, 2026

The grant period runs through June 30, 2027, and applications are now being accepted.

More information about the Oregon 250 Grant Program can be found at oregon250.org, including the grant guidelines and grant application.