April 6, 2026 / New Orleans, Louisiana — Louisiana organizations are invited to join the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by applying for a Parish America 250 Program Mini Grant.

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH), the America 250 Louisiana State Commission and the Louisiana Office of the Lieutenant Governor have partnered to offer the grants to support public humanities programming that engages local audiences with Louisiana’s significant contributions to the founding and development of the United States.

“Louisiana played a unique, and often overlooked role, in this historical event,” said Miranda Restovic, LEH president and executive director. “We are excited to offer this opportunity for our communities to tell our own history in conjunction with America’s 250th anniversary and to celebrate Louisiana’s important contributions to America’s independence.”

Organizations that are eligible to receive grants include parish governments, local tourism commissions, school boards, and nonprofits. Eligible projects include lectures and panel discussions, historical reenactments, theatrical productions, commemorative events and festivals, exhibits, public art, local historical marker development, school field trips and events, archival and museum collection acquisitions, and more.

“Our goal with our grant program is to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in all corners of Louisiana so it is truly a statewide celebration,” said Rep. Mike Bayham, chairman of the Louisiana America 250 Commission. “We encourage all 64 parishes to develop their own unique project for commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial.”

Applications will be accepted beginning April 8 and will be issued to qualified grantees that apply by the May 8 priority deadline. After May 8, applications will be accepted on a recurring basis through October 31, while funds are available. Grants of up to $1,500 are available.

More information and the link to apply when the application launches on April 8, can be found at leh.org/parish-america-250.