We’ve partnered with America250PA as they make their way through all of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. They’re spreading the word about the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States and Pennsylvania’s unique role as the birthplace of democracy in America. Stay tuned right here for news and updates from the America250PA team.
Calling All NEPA Nonprofits: Bring the SemiQuin to Life in Your Community
In just over a year, the United States will mark its 250th birthday—and Pennsylvania will be at the heart of the celebration. From the Declaration of Independence to the roots of industry, agriculture, and innovation, our Commonwealth has always played an outsized role in shaping the American story.
That’s why America250PA is inviting nonprofits, municipalities, and county governments across Northeastern Pennsylvania to apply for a Spring SemiQuin Grant between now and May 15, 2025.
Educate, Preserve, Innovate & Celebrate
Whether you’re a museum with a fresh idea, a borough looking to bring history to life, or a local group with a tradition worth sharing, these grants are designed to support projects that Educate, Preserve, Innovate, and Celebrate—what we call the EPIC framework. In short, if you’ve got a plan to help your neighbors feel connected to our shared past and hopeful about our future, we want to hear from you.
The application process is simple and open to any Pennsylvania-registered nonprofit or municipal or county government. Grants range in size and scope, with funding available to help bring new ideas to life or grow existing efforts already making an impact.
In the last round, projects were selected from 18 counties across the Commonwealth—urban and rural, large and small. This spring, we’re hoping to see even more representation from communities throughout NEPA.
Because in places like Scranton, Honesdale, Wilkes-Barre, Tunkhannock, Milford, Hazleton, Stroudsburg, and Carbondale, history isn’t just something you study—it’s something you live. It’s in the architecture, the neighborhoods, the festivals, and the stories passed down through generations. This anniversary is a chance to lift those stories up and share them with the rest of the Commonwealth.
As Executive Director Cassandra Coleman says, “The Semiquincentennial is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to remind ourselves what we’re capable of when we come together. No one gets left out of this celebration—not in Pennsylvania.”
We’ll be holding virtual Office Hours throughout the grant period to answer any questions and help with the application process. You can find the full schedule—and apply—at www.America250PA.org/Semiquin_Grants. Or reach out directly to our Strategic Initiatives & Grants Manager, Christian Cassidy-Amstutz, at Christian@America250PA.org.
We only turn 250 once. This grant gives NEPA the tools to show what makes your corner of the Commonwealth unforgettable!
