Searching for Grants for Historic Vessels

National Historic Ships is providing this list of potential funding sources (see link on left or below) as one of our initiatives to help vessel owners help themselves.

With the exception of the small number still in commercial use, few historic vessels are entirely self-supporting. Sourcing additional funds is therefore an essential activity for most vessel owner. There are no specific funds for the conservation, restoration and educational programmes of historic vessels. On the other hand, there are an enormous number of trusts and foundations who specifically support conservation and education programmes in general.

Many councils have lists of funding sources which support local projects – check your local authority’s website. You should also see if there are any Regional Development Agency or European Community programmes into which your project could fall. Many commercial companies also have a charitable arm who may be willing to support you – particularly in places where they have local offices.

The list of trusts and foundations on this website has been culled from a variety of sources. Some have given grants to historic vessels in the past, some have areas of interest which might include historic vessels, some are just considered worth a try. We cannot guarantee that an application will be received favourably. However, for this to become a useful tool for all historic vessel owners, please let us know where you have had successes … and rebuffs.

Potential sources for grant applications (80kB PDF)

Guidance notes for applications

1. Contact the trust or foundation to establish whether there is an application form or a deadline or specific supporting information they require
2. Understand the trust or foundation’s aims and ensure the application targets these. For example, the Heritage Lottery Fund is keen on improving access and involvement with heritage, not simply preserving it.
3. Tailor each application for the trust or foundation – there is nothing more off-putting than an application which looks like a mass mail out
4. Be clear about what you want, what you want it for and about the benefits for your vessel and the community at large
5. Be creative but not with the truth
6. Be enthusiastic
7. Be patient

See also

• New Grants for Owners of Ships on The National Register of Historic Vessels - The Strategic Development Fund
  National Historic Ships is delighted to announce an initiative to support owners of historic vessels and the ships in their safe keeping. With the help of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, we are now able to give small grants designed to assist owners in the following ways... More...