Heritage Projects

Overview

4Culture's Heritage Projects program funds the identification, documentation, exhibition, creation, and interpretation of heritage and histories in King County, Washington. Heritage is defined as the exchange of knowledge and experiences shaped by our past and includes local history, ethnic history, Native cultures, folklore and intangible cultural heritage, historic and archaeological resources, heritage field services, and stewarding heritage spaces in King County.

Award

Grants range from $2,000 to $15,000 for eligible projects.

What Heritage Projects Funds

• Creation of tangible and intangible resources including books, guides, brochures, research projects, digital projects, oral histories, visual or audio recordings, exhibit displays, and education curriculum
• Production of special events and programs including conferences, workshops, technical assistance programs, apprenticeships, historic tours, field schools, skill demonstrations, and collaboration programs
• Creation of resources exploring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence as it relates to King County communities
• Opportunities for underrepresented populations (communities of color, LGBTQIA+ communities, youth, people with disabilities, gender variant communities) to work with heritage resources

Eligible Uses

• Direct project expenses including materials, supplies, event insurance, transportation, and documentation
• Publicity and outreach efforts
• Compensation for project team, consultants, specialists, trainees, community participants, or staff time outside regular duties
• Rental fees for event venues or equipment

Ineligible Uses

• Projects without heritage in King County as foundational element
• Projects led by organizations currently receiving Sustained Support or Launch grants from 4Culture
• Equipment purchases or capital projects
• General operating support, overhead costs, fees, ongoing rent, utilities, website maintenance, employee benefits, regular staff salaries
• Project elements completed before May 27, 2026
• Fundraising activities or projects where direct marketing is primary purpose
• Religious worship, exercise, prayer, or instruction
• Programs only open to matriculating students
• Services and programs provided by King County Landmarks Commission for land use regulation and archaeological resource management

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: March 11, 2026 at 5pm

Eligibility

Applicants must focus heritage projects on King County, Washington. Projects cannot be led or produced primarily by organizations currently receiving Sustained Support or Launch grants from 4Culture.

Review Criteria

Applications will be evaluated on: Project impact and public benefit, including how the project meets organizational mission, expands heritage work in King County, increases public access, and provides compelling public benefit. Quality and qualifications, including alignment with professional standards, community connection, and relevant team qualifications. Feasibility, demonstrated through team qualifications, realistic budget, and detailed implementation plans to complete within 24 months. Advancing equity as aligned with 4Culture's racial equity mission.

Contact

Heritage: Megumi Nagata (206) 263-3474