The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VA-NCA-VCGP-2024) is administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration (NCA). This program provides funding to state, U.S. territory, and federally recognized tribal governments for the establishment, expansion, and improvement of veterans cemeteries. Since its inception, VA has awarded over $1 billion in grants to support 122 veterans cemeteries across 49 states, U.S. territories, and tribal trust lands, including Guam and Saipan. These cemeteries provide burial services for veterans and eligible family members, with more than 45,000 interments conducted in fiscal year 2022 alone.

The grant program covers up to 100% of the development cost for approved projects. Funding is available for the establishment of new cemeteries, including support for operating equipment, as well as the expansion and improvement of existing cemeteries. However, grant funds cannot be used for land acquisition. All funded cemeteries must adhere to VA standards and guidelines related to site selection, planning, and construction. Cemeteries must also comply with the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA), ensuring that all iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in VA-funded projects are produced in the United States.

Eligibility for this grant is limited to state governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, and U.S. territories. Private organizations, counties, cities, and other government agencies are not eligible to apply. Additionally, cemeteries that receive funding must be operated solely for the interment of veterans and their eligible family members, as defined by VA regulations. Due to recent legislative changes, certain individuals who do not qualify for burial in a VA National Cemetery may now be eligible for interment in cemeteries supported by this grant program.

Applicants must submit a pre-application no later than July 1, 2025, as per 38 CFR 39.3(d). The grant application process requires applicants to provide detailed plans that align with VA standards, including site selection and construction compliance with federal procurement preferences. The administration, operation, and maintenance of cemeteries funded under this program remain the sole responsibility of the state, territory, or tribal government.

The VA provides a "plot allowance" reimbursement of up to $828 per eligible veteran burial to assist with cemetery operation costs. This reimbursement is separate from the primary grant funding and is meant to support states and territories in maintaining burial services for veterans. More details about the grant program, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, can be found on the VA National Cemetery Administration's website.

For further inquiries regarding this funding opportunity, applicants may contact Jon Muckey, Deputy Director, at (202) 461-1593.