The Preservation Initiatives (PI) Grant Program is a funding opportunity administered by the DC Preservation League. This program is designed to support individuals and non-profit organizations involved in preservation activities related to historic and cultural sites. The primary aim of the program is to stimulate public discussion about historic preservation, introduce the public to preservation concepts, and make technical expertise accessible. It also encourages partnerships between organizations, aiming to foster broader community engagement in preservation efforts.

The program is supported by two separate funding sources, specifically for projects related to the Brightwood Car Barn (located in Ward 4) and the Virginia Avenue Tunnel. This focus on targeted areas helps to concentrate efforts where preservation projects may have the most impact. For the 2025 cycle, applications are open until Friday, March 7, 2025.

Eligible applicants for the PI Grant Program include individuals and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. All applicants must submit a letter of support from a community organization, such as a Ward Councilmember, Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC), or neighborhood association. This letter of support is essential for project consideration. The program is designed to fund projects that are completed within one year of receiving the initial grant funding, although Bricks & Mortar projects may extend up to two years for completion.

There are four types of eligible projects for which applicants may request funding. These include Preservation Planning, Research, Outreach & Education, and Bricks & Mortar projects. Preservation Planning and Research projects can receive grants in the range of $5,000 to $10,000, with a 25% match required. Projects under Outreach & Education are eligible for the same funding range and match percentage. Bricks & Mortar projects, which focus on exterior work to preserve a historic property, are eligible for grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, but these projects require a 100% match.

Grant recipients are encouraged to attend workshops and information sessions to help with their applications. For the 2025 grant cycle, these sessions will take place via Zoom, with sessions on January 7, February 6, and February 18, 2025. The program also provides contact information for Zachary Burt, the Grants Manager, for any questions related to the application process. He can be reached by phone at 202-417-6291 or via email at zach@dcpreservation.org.