At the beginning of each state fiscal year (July 1), DHR announces the availability of funds for the care and maintenance of historical African American cemeteries and graves, defined by Code of Virginia§10.1-2211.2 as “a cemetery that was established prior to January 1, 1948 for the interment of African Americans.”
The application period for the 2024–2025 fiscal year is now closed. We appreciate the interest and submissions received. The 2025–2026 fiscal year will begin on July 1, 2025, and grant applications will open at that time. Please revisit our site then for updated guidelines and application information.
Organizations having received funds in the previous fiscal year (2023-2024) must complete and submit a Reconciliation of Requirements form as agreed to in the Acknowledgment of Reporting Requirements document. Disbursement of current year funds will not take place until this document is received and accepted. A template to assist in completing these requirements may be found here: AA Reporting Template
If you have questions or need additional assistance, please email aacgf@dhr.virginia.gov.
Programs
DHR has secured permanent legal protection for over 700 historic places - including 15,000 acres of battlefield lands
DHR has erected 2,532 highway markers in every county and city across Virginia
DHR has registered more than 3,317 individual resources and 613 historic districts
DHR has engaged over 450 students in 3 highway marker contests
DHR has stimulated more than $4.2 billion dollars in private investments related to historic tax credit incentives, revitalizing communities of all sizes throughout Virginia
