Grants Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: Eligible Organizations

Q: What types of organizations are eligible for financial consideration? 

A: The following entities are eligible for applying to SC American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission grants unless noted otherwise: Official County 250 Committees, Local Governments, Tribes, Museums, Historical Societies, Visitor Centers, Chambers of Commerce, Universities/Colleges, Non-Profit Organizations, SC Council of Governments, Regional Tourism Commissions, Other Select SC Organizations or Businesses in Public/Private Partnerships | Individuals and entities outside of SC are only eligible for Research & Publication Grants and only if their topics still relate specifically to SC during the American Revolution Era 1770-1783. | Contact SC250 for clarification or exemption requests.

FAQ: What are the deadlines for SC250 competitive grants?

Q: What are the application deadlines for Community Impact Grants, Major Project Grants, and Premier Project Grants?

A: Community Impact Grants, Major Project Grants, and Premier Project Grants share the same quarterly application deadlines. Applications are due on September 1, December 1, March 1, and June 1.

FAQ: Can I apply for an SC250 grant if I live outside South Carolina?

Q: Can individuals or institutions outside South Carolina apply for SC250 grant funding?

A: Generally, SC250 expects applicants and projects to be located in South Carolina. The main exception is for research and publication grants: individuals or institutions outside South Carolina may apply if the topic is specifically about the American Revolution in South Carolina. SC250 also advises applicants to contact staff for clarification or exemption requests.

FAQ: Does my project meet the requirements for an SC250 grant?

Q: How do I know if my project is eligible for funding from SC250?

A: To be eligible for SC250 grant funding, your project must fall within the historical scope and mission of SC250. Specifically, projects must focus on the period between 1770 and 1783, which encompasses the key years leading up to and during the American Revolution.

Projects may include (but are not limited to):

• Historical research, exhibits, or publications related to South Carolina’s role in the Revolutionary era
• Public programs or events that educate and engage audiences on Revolutionary War themes
• Preservation or interpretation of Revolutionary War sites or artifacts

Projects that do not clearly relate to this 1770–1783 timeframe and to South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution are not eligible for SC250 funding.

If you’re unsure whether your project fits within this purview, we encourage you to contact the SC250 team for guidance before submitting your application.

FAQ: What projects have you funded in the past?

Q: Where do I go to see what SC250 has funded in the past?

A: Our goal is to make applicants aware of projects that have already been funded so they can avoid duplicating existing efforts and identify opportunities to build on or complement previous work. Please see our list of previously funded projects here.

FAQ: What items are not funded under SC250 grants?

Q: Can I use grant funds to cover travel expenses (e.g., airfare, lodging, food, insurance)?

A: No, travel expenses are not covered under this grant.
Food, travel/accomodations, insurance, security, fireworks, and drone shows are not eligible for grant funding. It is a great opportunity for partnership!

FAQ: Is there a match requirement for Major and Premier Project Grants?

Q: Do Major and Premier Project Grants require a funding match?

A: Yes, both Major and Premier Project Grants have a match requirement.
Applicants must provide a cash match equal to a percentage of the total project cost, as outlined in the grant guidelines. In-kind contributions (e.g., donated services, volunteer time, or materials) do not count toward the required match and will not be accepted as part of the matching funds.

This requirement ensures financial commitment and project sustainability beyond the scope of the grant itself. 

Please refer to the grant program guidelines for specific match ratios and documentation requirements.

FAQ: What is the start date for grant-funded project work?

Q: When can I begin work on my project and have expenses covered by grant funds?

A: Only project work that begins on or after the date listed on your official award letter is eligible for grant funding.

Any work or expenses incurred before the award date are not covered by the grant and will not be reimbursed. The award letter will clearly state the grant start date—this is the earliest point at which grant-funded activities and spending may begin.

To ensure compliance, do not begin project work or incur costs until you receive your award letter and confirm the official start date.