As Mississippi prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, the America250 Mississippi Grants Program invites communities across the state to take part in this historic commemoration. Established by the America250 Mississippi Commission, this program aims to empower local organizations to honor their unique histories, foster a deeper understanding of Mississippi’s vital role in the American story, and inspire meaningful engagement with our shared heritage. By supporting public events and initiatives during the America250 semiquincentennial, the program seeks to create lasting legacies that will help future generations of Mississippians appreciate and celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of our state’s past. All funded projects and programs must occur during 2026.
Grants Offered
Legacy Grants – Up to $20,000 to support larger projects that enhance a community’s capacity to explore and promote local history, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Deadlines: Dec. 1, 2025 and Feb. 1, 2026.
Program Grants – up to $10,000 to support local celebrations of the semiquincentennial and public programs that explore the themes of Mississippi250. Deadlines: Jan. 15, 2026; March 15, 2026.
Minigrants – Up to $5,000 to provide accessible, flexible funding for small-scale, grassroots projects and local activities commemorating America250. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Note: The America250 Mississippi Public Arts Grants are overseen by the Mississippi Arts Commission. Their applications open on November 17, 2025, at 12:00 AM CST, and close on January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM CST. For more information about the America250 Mississippi Public Arts Grants, please visit the Mississippi Art Commission’s website.
America250 Mississippi Grant Guidelines ( PDF | Word ) – Please review the Grant Guidelines carefully before beginning an application.
Workshop Materials:
- PowerPoints
- Videos
- General Overview Video (from September 2025’s workshop)
- Legacy Grants Video (from November 2025’s workshop)
- Below are sample documents to aid you in filling out your grant application. Legacy Grant applications can only be submitted via the online Legacy Grant portal.
- Below are sample documents to aid you in filling out your grant application. Program and Mini Grant Applications can only be submitted via the online Program and Mini Grant portal.
Download America250 Mississippi Logos:
