Local Records Grant Program

Local Records Grant Program Overview

Washington State Archives has provided grants to local government agencies since 2002. In 2017, the state legislature created the Local Records Grant Program (LRGP). This grant supports records management, retention compliance, and access to public records.

Since 2019, a $1 fee on documents recorded with county auditors funds this program. Annual funding may vary based on number of documents recorded. Review our program grantees for past funding amounts.

This is a reimbursement grant. Grantees will first complete a Service Level Agreement with Office of the Secretary of State. Then incur expenses and sign vendor agreements. Only then may grantees submit expense and invoice documentation for payment.

There is no cash match / cash contribution requirement.

Read more about preparing your application and grant management. 

Grant Eligibility and Evaluation

Eligibility and evaluation follow the requirements in Chapter 434-670 WAC.

This grant is open to local government agencies with preference given to smaller local government agencies.

Previous grantees may reapply the following year.

A local agency often has different departments or units; each unit is a unique applicant. We strongly encourage local agencies to work cooperatively to seek coordinated solutions.

Archives staff review and score applications. Then, the Archives Advisory Committee makes and reviews recommendations in a public meeting. This committee includes county auditors, county clerks, and other local government representatives. Following this meeting, the Office of the Secretary of State approves the recommendations. Finally, the grant coordinator will notify each applicant of the decision.  

We strongly encourage applicants to talk with us about their project and application. Email [email protected]

Grant Program Categories

The program divides the grants into three categories. A summary of each category is below. View links for details.

Organizing the File Room. Organize and remove physical records. Funds shelving, archival boxes, destruction services, temporary staffing, and other supplies. Covers up to $20,000.

Technology Tools. Hardware and software such as scanners, content management (ECM) systems, and vendor training. Agencies must pay ongoing subscription or licensing costs. Covers up to $30,000.

Digital Imaging. Covers expenses related to digitizing specific records. Grantees may contract with Washington State Archives or another qualified vendor. Covers up to $50,000.

Last Updated: October 2026