America’s 250

Planning for America 250: Grants, Resources, and Tools for Heritage Montgomery Partners

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, the America 250 celebration presents an exciting opportunity for heritage sites, cultural experiences, and community partners in Montgomery County to showcase our nation’s story. With expanded contextualization of our heritage area’s existing programming and increased visitor interest on the horizon, it’s essential to have the right resources and support in place. Below, we’ve outlined some key grant opportunities, planning tools, and resources available to help Heritage Montgomery partners prepare for this historic celebration.

Heritage Montgomery’s Approach: HM’s approach to commemorative events centers on enhancing its existing programs that showcase the rich history of both Montgomery County and the nation from 1776 through 2026. By uniting these stories under a cohesive 250th brand, Heritage Montgomery aims to amplify the impact and resonance of these narratives, connecting past and present in a way that honors this milestone anniversary.

Heritage Montgomery hosted a partner planning webinar about the 250th anniversary on November 19, 2024. You can review the video and slides below.

Grant Opportunities: Securing funding is a pivotal step in organizing impactful events for America 250. The Maryland Two Fifty Commission is offering three exciting funding opportunities: Citizen Academy Grants ($500), MD Two Fifty Fellows Internship Grants (up to $7,500), and Inclusive History Grants (up to $4,000). These grants support programs engaging citizens, mentoring interns, and promoting inclusive history projects. Additionally, there are a variety of federal and private grant opportunities available for Montgomery County heritage partners. Review grant opportunities here

Planning Tools & Resources: There are a number of free planning tools and resources available for heritage partners as they begin planning their events and activities.

Maryland 250 Information: Stay updated as planning for the Maryland 250 continues.

Maryland 250 Commission Virtual Statewide Convenings and Office Hours

Each virtual convening will begin with a brief presentation; then, stakeholders will have an opportunity to share updates on the status of their 250th planning; and there will be an opportunity to ask questions of stakeholders from around the state. Additional topics planned include launching a local 250th Commission; funding and marketing for the 250th; service opportunities for the 250th; civic engagement and the 250th; and history.

Virtual office hours are planned monthly. Simply sign up and show up with your questions or challenges related to the 250th, or join if you would like to know what others are asking.

Please email Maryland 250 Assistant Administrator, Erin Bode, at Erin.Bode@Maryland.gov to request calendar invitations for virtual convenings and/or virtual office hours.

AASLH 250 Con Virtual Conference

Join AASLH for 250 Con, a galvanizing and unifying moment for the history field as we enter the final year of planning for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States! The virtual event will take place on February 27-28, 2025.

With less than two years to go, now is the time for history-doers to finalize plans for the 250th, an occasion that could transform both our field and society. Major initiatives are already underway across the country, but the Semiquincentennial will only be as impactful as the strength of our collaboration. Attend 250 Con to learn about national and state planning opportunities, identify actionable ways to participate, and join your peers in generating enthusiasm for this once-in-a-generation event.

Register Here | See the Program