Asked by John Slaughter from Byron Center Michigan
We have a 120 year old barn we would like help with grants on for Michigan. It is a historic barn and the first one in the area that was built. Anyone have connections on applying for something like this? We need as much $$$ as possible to do it right. Thanks for your time.
Hi John,
Unfortunately there isn’t much available as far as grants to restore barns. Unless it has significant historical value. That is from local, state, or national governments.
However, you might be able to get help from a corporate sponsor. You have to look at it from their point of view. Is sponsoring the restoration of your barn going to give them good publicity? Are you doing something with the barn that is going to benefit the community?
Also, and this is just an idea, you might try to get some sort of a community development block grant, or something of that nature, if you are doing the project for the benefit of the community. The way to start that would be to ask a township council member what might be available. It is always best to start at the local level first.
I hope this helps, if anyone else has information on grants that might be available, or something I have overlooked, please share in the comments below.
Thank You
The Barn Geek