The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission is accepting grant applications for the 2026 County History Partnership Program (CHPP).
The CHPP grant supports local history organizations that provide New Jersey history programming, history-related services, and history education about Somerset County for its residents. Historical societies and organizations, municipalities, libraries, and nonprofits are all invited to apply.
“As we move closer to celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, it’s also important to recognize, support, and preserve our local history,” said Deputy Director Melonie Marano, liaison to the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission. “These grants help applicants develop educational and interactive programs that highlight Somerset County’s rich history. In 2025, over $63,000 of grant funds were awarded to seven organizations to strengthen their history programs, improve services, and create more enjoyable experiences for residents.”
Grant Guidelines
Grant funding is competitive. Applicants are required to demonstrate their managerial competency, fiscal stability, excellence in history programming and organizational capacity to execute a proposed program or project.
Grant funding may be requested for New Jersey history programs and projects that are accessible to the public. If the applicant’s mission is solely history-dedicated, then grant funding may be requested for general operating support in 2026.
The CHPP grant for 2026 is contingent on funds made available to the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission through the New Jersey Historical Commission. Match requirements have been waived for 2026.
Application Deadline
CHPP grant applications are due on Friday, September 12, 2025, by 4 p.m. Applicants must mail or hand-deliver the completed application package to the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, County Administration Building, P.O. Box 3000, Somerville, New Jersey 08876. For more information and application guidelines, visit http://bit.ly/CHPPGrant.
CHPP Grant Virtual Technical Assistance Workshop
Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a virtual workshop to better understand the CHPP grant process.
The CHPP Technical Assistance Zoom Workshop is set for August 21, 2025, at 10 a.m. To register for a workshop session, visit http://bit.ly/CHPPGrant. A Zoom link will be sent to participants upon registration.
For more information, contact the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission office at (908) 231-7021 or CulturalHeritage@co.somerset.nj.us.
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About Somerset County
The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.