How can we ensure that funding for preservation is equitable?

1. Conduct a needs assessment: Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify which historic structures, buildings, and sites are in most need of revitalization and preservation.

2. Prioritize funding: Prioritize funding for preservation projects based on need and impact. This can be achieved by developing a scoring system that assigns points to each project based on criteria such as the age and historical significance of the structure, its condition, and its potential to create jobs and contribute to the local economy.

3. Utilize public funding sources: Consider using public funding sources such as tax credits, grants, and loans to support preservation efforts. Public funding sources can help to ensure more equitable distribution of funding by prioritizing projects that have the most significant impact on underserved communities.

4. Partner with community organizations: Partner with community organizations to identify sites that are important to them and provide support in the preservation of those sites.

5. Provide technical assistance: Provide technical assistance and training to preservation organizations and community groups to ensure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to compete effectively for funding and to complete preservation projects successfully.

6. Consider diverse perspectives: Include diverse perspectives in the decision-making process to ensure that all communities and stakeholders are represented, and their needs are taken into consideration. This can include engaging local historians, community leaders, and representatives from cultural organizations.

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