MotorCities National Heritage Area Now Accepting Applications for 5th Annual Grants Program

DETROIT, Feb. 2, 2006 -- MotorCities National Heritage Area (MotorCities), a Congressionally designated organization promoting and protecting Michigan's automotive heritage, is currently accepting applications for its 5th Annual 2006 Grants Program, offering a total of $50,000 this year, $35,000 in Grants and $15,000 in Mini Grants.

To date, MotorCities has awarded over $270,000 to develop projects that improve auto-heritage related activities by enhancing revitalization efforts, expanding educational initiatives and broadening tourism programs.

"MotorCities is eager to continue our annual Grants Program to help strengthen and improve regional automotive heritage projects and venues," said Mark Pischea, MotorCities executive director. "In 2005, MotorCities is proud to have awarded $70,000 to grant recipient venues such as the Durant Dort Headquarters, Ford Piquette Plant, Meadow Brook Hall, Detroit Public Library and more. Over $1 million in new auto heritage related projects have been created with the help of our Grants Program."

Grants are awarded annually with each grant ranging in amount from $2,500 to $10,000. Only non-profit corporations, active Stewardship Communities and organizations that are active members of a Stewardship Community may apply. Each dollar in grant funds must be matched at least dollar for dollar locally. Mini Grants range between $250 and $2,500. Unlike Grants, individuals may apply for Mini Grants.

The program is funded by the Big Three -- DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation and an annual appeal to the MotorCities Board of Directors.

The application deadline is March 17, 2006. Awardees will be announced May 1, 2006.

For more information about MotorCities Grants Program, to submit an application, or to find out if your organization is within a Stewardship Community, please visit http://www.experienceeverythingautomotive.org/ or call 313-259-3425. Applications are available online.

About MotorCities

Designated by the U.S. Congress in 1998 as an Affiliate of the National Park Service, MotorCities helps citizens appreciate how the automobile changed Michigan, the nation and the world. MotorCities strives to make Michigan's rich automotive heritage a source of pride for communities and a positive influence on the region's future. In addition to promoting tourist attractions like the Dream Cruise, MotorCities also provides educational material and funds revitalization projects, helping residents and visitors alike Experience Everything Automotive. For more information, please visit http://www.experienceeverythingautomotive.org/ .