Challenge Cost Share is a program offering federal funding, to be matched 50/50, for preservation and interpretation/education projects along the El Camino Real de Los Tejas National Historic Trail.
Deadlines and Contact Information
As of October 1, 2010, funding for the Challenge Cost Share Program is not included in the federal budget for FY11 (October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011).
Don't be frightened by the forms! Instructions are provided, and help is available from staff at the National Trails Intermountain Region office in Santa Fe.
Contact our office to discuss your project prior to submitting your proposal. Please phone (505) 988-6717 or email us.
Information and Proposal Form
General information is provided in About Challenge Cost Share (62.4 KB pdf)
To apply for project funding, complete the Challenge Cost Share Proposal Form (147 KB pdf) Challenge Cost Share Proposal Form (26.8 KB Word)
To track volunteer hours and expenses, complete the Volunteer Time and Expense Log (44.3 KB pdf) Volunteer Time and Expense Log (15.4 KB Word)
Archeology and Historic Preservation Proposals
If you are proposing an archeology or historic preservation, restoration, or rehabilitation project, please look at this additional guidance. (55.3 KB pdf)
Additional Information for Completing Your Proposal's Budget
Challenge Cost Share Program recipients who spend federal dollars must do so in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. It is your responsibility to understand and abide by these rules. The links below provide some guidance regarding federal regulation and developing your proposal's budget.
Links for Non-Profit Organizations
Links for State, Local and Indian Tribal Governments
Next Steps
If your project is approved, you and your organizational representative will be asked to sign a Cooperative Agreement with the National Park Service. The agreement states the terms of the partnership and legally authorizes the NPS to reimburse you for your allowable expenses.
Once the Cooperative Agreement has been signed, you may begin your project.
If your organization not have a DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number, you must obtain one.
To learn more about DUNS numbers - How to Obtain a DUNS number (22.8 KB pdf)
Register for a DUNS number on-line at
Register for a DUNS number by phone at (866) 705-5711
Register your DUNS and Tax ID numbers with the Central Contractor’s On-line Registry -
For registration assistance, call (888) 227-2423
Requesting Reimbursement for Expenses
The National Park Service can only pay reimbursements for your project expenses. No advances to a project will be authorized.
To request reimbursements, complete the Request for Reimbursement (Standard Form 270) (164 KB pdf)
Completing Your Project
When your project is completed and/or your funding is spent, you will be asked to complete a Project Completion form (274 KB pdf) that closes the project.
