Canalway Corridor seeks grant applications for projects with an impact

Photo by Tom Rivers: This mural on the Lift Bridge Book Shop in Brockport was completed this summer by Albion native Stacey Kirby Steward. It was partially funded with an IMPACT! grant from the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. The mural is based on the illustration of a children’s book, The Erie Canal, by Peter Spier.

Press Release, Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor

WATERFORD – The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is now accepting applications for its IMPACT! grant program.

The grants range from $2,500 to $12,000 and will be awarded to municipalities, not-for-profits with a 501(c)(3) designation, and federally-recognized Native American tribes within the boundaries of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

Applications are due by Friday, October 15, 2021.

“These grants provide critical funding for a host of projects that would not happen otherwise. We are eager to help communities and organizations across the state boost economic activity while safeguarding and celebrating our cherished canal heritage,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

The grant program is competitive, and applications should focus on one or more of five key priorities: showcasing the canal corridor’s distinctive sense of place, protecting canal historic and natural resources, promoting recreational opportunities, creating “must-do” travel experiences, and spurring heritage-based economic growth.

A one-to-one match consisting of non-federal support is required and the awards are distributed on a reimbursement basis at project completion.

This grant program is made possible with support from the National Park Service and the New York State Canal Corporation.

“Grants like IMPACT! allow us to be good stewards of our State’s history and land by providing us with the vital opportunity to help preserve the Canal System by boosting heritage-based economic growth along the corridor,” said New York State Canal Corporation Director Brain U. Stratton. “We at the Canal Corporation are excited to see all of this year’s applicants and their commitment to honoring the Canal System and all it has to offer.”

Applicants are strongly advised to contact program staff to discuss proposed projects prior to submitting an application. Please contact: Andy Kitzmann, 518-237-7000 x201, andy_kitzmann@partner.nps.gov.

For more information, click here.