How Beaver County groups can join America’s 250th birthday celebration

Beaver County is joining the rest of Pennsylvania in celebrating the United States of America’s 250th birthday in 2026, and funding is available to help municipalities and community organizations plan local events and other projects for the occasion.

Grant applications are due Jan. 31 for the Beaver County America250 Grant Program, which will offer grant funding to projects that celebrate the nation’s birthday through activities that educate, bring communities together, inspire youth and promote Beaver County in 2026.

“We’re thrilled to launch this grant program at such a historic moment,” said Tony Caltury, director of Beaver County Recreation and Tourism, which is coordinating the grant program with the America250 Beaver County Committee and the county board of commissioners.

“This is an opportunity for every community in Beaver County to engage residents and visitors alike in meaningful experiences that honor our shared past and look forward to our collective future.”

What types of projects are eligible?

Eligible grant applicants include incorporated boroughs, townships and cities, municipal authorities, parks and recreation departments, libraries, historical committees, nonprofits and other community organizations in Beaver County. Activities can also involve partnerships among local organizations, schools and community groups, according to the grant program guidelines.

Applicants can request grant funds ranging from $500 to $10,000 for expenditures that include venue and event costs, educational programs and materials, public art creation and installation, interpretive signage and historical markers, heritage trail enhancements, and other projects. Matching funds are not required to apply, but those and in-kind contributions do make the grant application stronger, according to the guidelines.

Permanent staffing costs, alcohol purchases, capital construction expenses over $10,000 and political activities and fundraisers are not eligible for the grant funding.

Applications will be reviewed by the America250 Beaver County Committee and approved by resolution of the Beaver County Commissioners. Grant awards will be announced the week of Feb. 23, and all grant-funded projects must be completed by December.

Anyone who has questions or needs assistance with the grant application can contact Gretchen D’Atri of Beaver County Recreation & Tourism by email at [email protected].

The Beaver County America250 grant program is part of America250PA, a project that encourages communities across the commonwealth to join in activities celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.

Those who are interested in volunteering with the America250 Beaver County Committee can reach the committee at [email protected].