Fund Your Visitor Kiosk Using the Discover NJ History Grant (Up to $7,500)
A step-by-step guide for New Jersey historical societies, museums, and DMOs to improve visitor experience using state funding.
What Is the Discover NJ History License Plate Grant?
The Discover NJ History License Plate Fund, administered by the New Jersey Historic Trust (NJHT) under the NJ Department of Community Affairs, supports heritage tourism and visitor-readiness projects across the state.
Funding comes directly from the sale of Discover NJ History license plates and is reinvested into New Jersey’s historical and cultural destinations.
Key Grant Facts
- Maximum award: $7,500
- Matching funds: ❌ Not required
- Grant type: Heritage Tourism / Technical Assistance
- Project completion window: 12 months
- Reimbursement-based funding
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
You may apply if your organization is one of the following New Jersey–based entities:
- Nonprofit historical organizations (501(c)(3))
- Museums and historic houses
- Municipal, county, or state government entities
- Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs)
- Tourism bureaus or heritage alliances
⚠️ Important rule:
Applicants must demonstrate public benefit and heritage tourism impact — not internal operations.
Why a HootBoard Kiosk Qualifies Under This Grant
This grant does not fund construction or general operations.
It funds visitor-facing, interpretive, and engagement tools.
A HootBoard kiosk qualifies when positioned as:
- A digital visitor information system
- An interpretive signage platform
- A wayfinding and storytelling tool
- A visitor-readiness solution
Eligible Grant Activities That Match HootBoard
- Visitor engagement and interpretation
- Wayfinding and informational signage
- Heritage tourism readiness projects
- Digital tools that improve visitor access
💡 Key framing tip:
In your application, describe HootBoard as a visitor engagement system, not just “hardware.”
What the Grant Will and Will NOT Cover
✅ Grant WILL Cover
- Digital visitor signage
- Interpretive content delivery
- Visitor engagement systems
- Professional implementation of visitor tools
❌ Grant WILL NOT Cover
- General operating expenses
- Staffing or salaries
- Large-scale printing
- Construction or permanent exhibits
This makes interactive kiosks one of the safest, cleanest fits.
How Much of the Kiosk Can Be Funded?
The grant provides up to $7,500 and is reimbursed after project completion.
Depending on configuration, funding can cover:
- Kiosk hardware (fully or partially)
- Setup & deployment
- Initial content configuration
- Visitor workflows and layouts
Important Deadlines (Do Not Miss These)
Applications are reviewed quarterly.
Submission Deadlines
- February 1
- May 1
- August 1
- November 1
⚠️ Critical rule:
Funds are limited. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact NJHT staff before applying to confirm availability.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Using a HootBoard Kiosk
Step 1: Identify the Visitor Problem
Examples:
- Limited staff coverage
- Visitors missing key information
- No centralized visitor experience
- Inconsistent interpretation
Step 2: Define the Solution
Describe the kiosk as:
- Always-on visitor information
- Digital interpretation system
- Wayfinding + storytelling platform
Step 3: Explain Public Benefit
Highlight:
- Improved visitor experience
- Increased accessibility
- Better heritage storytelling
- Reduced staff burden
Step 4: Show Sustainability
Explain how the kiosk:
- Works long-term
- Requires minimal upkeep
- Supports future tourism efforts
Step 5: Submit Supporting Materials
NJHT encourages:
- Visual mockups
- Sample layouts
- Clear project scope
Key Rules to Remember
- Funds are reimbursement-based
- Project must be completed within 12 months
- Applicant must manage the project
- Grant must serve public-facing heritage tourism
- Clear documentation is required
Why This Grant Is a Smart Move for Historical Organizations
This program is designed for exactly this kind of improvement:
- Low-risk
- Visitor-facing
- Long-term impact
- No matching funds
A HootBoard kiosk helps your site:
- Be visitor-ready
- Modernize interpretation
- Improve access without staffing increases
- Align with state tourism goals
Need Help Applying?
If you’re planning to apply for the Discover NJ History Grant:
- We help frame the project correctly
- Provide grant-aligned language
- Supply visuals and scope descriptions
- Reduce rejection risk
👉 Talk to us before you submit.
