Those projects that involve the excavation, stabilization, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, or acquisition of a designated property or site are considered "acquisition and development."  Archaeological projects are considered Acquisition and Development when the level of investigation is "intensive excavation." In such cases, the affected site must be designated before the application is submitted.  Designated properties include those listed on one or more of the following:

1. National Register of Historic Places, which is administered by the National Park Service
2. State Register of Historic Properties, which is administered by the Colorado Historical Society
3. Local Landmark lists, which are administered by local governments

Those projects that provide historic preservation information or information about historic sites to the public.  Includes publications, videos, lesson plans, brochures, markers, exhibits and other interpretive programs.

Those projects that involve identification, recording, evaluation, designation, and planning for the protection of significant historic buildings, structures, sites, and districts.  For archaeological projects, all levels of survey and test excavations are considered Survey and Planning projects and prior historic designation is not required.  However, once testing reveals eligibility for designation, further excavation may not occur without designation.

Competitive Grants (aka General Grants) are made for any of the three projects types: Acquisition & Development, Education, and Survey & Inventory.

Are made for the collection and evaluation of archaeological information for the purpose of creating a plan for preservation or additional work where the request is $10,000 or less. Applications are accepted anytime during the year.

Are made exclusively for interim stabilization of a historic property that has been damaged due to some unforeseeable event and typically do not exceed $10,000.  No cash match is required.  Applications are accepted anytime during the year.