The Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area is accepting applications for its Community Grants Program through March 31, giving organizations across northwest Alabama a chance to fund projects that highlight the region’s natural, musical and historic assets.

The program, managed by The University of North Alabama in partnership with the National Parks Service, supports work in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone and Morgan counties. Consequently, projects must connect to one of three themes: the Tennessee River, Indigenous heritage or music legacy.

MSNHA Director Terah Klein said the new grant cycle features an online application system that will simplify submissions and project management.

“This year, we are so excited to have a new online application system,” Klein said. “It means a simplified and streamlined process that will make applying for and managing our grants much easier for everybody.”

The grants reimburse costs after a project is finished and documentation is approved. Recipients must provide a one-to-one match through volunteer hours or other expenses.

The program has funded a broad mix of efforts in recent years. Those projects include historic restorations, museum exhibits, public art, festivals, music events, educational programs and upgrades to community spaces.

Recent awards helped pay for new signage at historic sites, restoration work on landmark buildings, archival digitization, security improvements for cultural centers and park enhancements.

Klein urged applicants to study the guidelines and match requirements before applying so they can move smoothly through the review and reimbursement process.

Organizations interested in applying can access the application portal, supporting documents and Klein directly here for assistance.