The Veterans Cemetery Grants program helps states, U.S. territories, and federally recognized tribal governments establish, expand, or improve cemeteries for veterans. The grant covers up to 100% of development costs, but not land acquisition. The cemeteries must meet specific standards and use materials made in the U.S. The program aims to provide more burial options for veterans and their families.
Who it's for: This grant is for states, U.S. territories, federally recognized tribal governments on trust land, and counties that meet specific eligibility criteria. It's designed to help these entities develop or improve cemeteries for veterans.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Using racial preference for eligibility criteria
- Promoting gender ideology
- Facilitating violations of immigration laws
- Engaging in waste, fraud, or abuse
- Conduct that brings disrepute to the VA or the project
What You May Need
- Proof of eligibility under 38 USC 2408
- Project proposal meeting VA standards
- Compliance with Build America, Buy America Act
- Certification of U.S.-produced materials
- Detailed budget and cost estimates
- Documentation of operating equipment needs
- Plan for cemetery operation and maintenance
- Evidence of compliance with burial eligibility rules
Cautions
- Ensure all materials are U.S.-produced to comply with the Build America, Buy America Act.
- The grant does not cover land acquisition costs.
- Strict adherence to VA standards and guidelines is required.
- Projects must align with the President's and VA's priorities.
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include states, U.S. territories, federally recognized tribal governments on trust land owned by, or held in trust for, the tribal organization, and counties that meet the eligibility criteria of 38 USC 2408. These entities must own and operate the cemeteries and comply with all VA standards and guidelines.
Overview
This grant is for states, U.S. territories, federally recognized tribal governments on trust land, and counties that meet specific eligibility criteria. It's designed to help these entities develop or improve cemeteries for veterans.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Using racial preference for eligibility criteria
- Promoting gender ideology
- Facilitating violations of immigration laws
- Engaging in waste, fraud, or abuse
- Conduct that brings disrepute to the VA or the project
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to establish, expand, or improve veterans cemeteries, covering development costs and operating equipment for new cemeteries. However, they cannot be used for land acquisition.
Total Program Funding
$60,000,000
Expected Awards
30
Cost Sharing
Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Feb 9, 2026
- Deadline
- Jul 1, 2026(18 days)
- Archive Date
- Jul 31, 2026
- Last Updated
- May 13, 2026
Application Checklist
- Verify eligibility under 38 USC 2408
- Prepare a detailed project proposal
- Ensure compliance with VA standards
- Gather documentation for U.S.-produced materials
- Develop a comprehensive budget
- Plan for cemetery operation and maintenance
- Submit pre-application by the deadline