Illinois and Michigan Canal Locks and Towpath NHL Photo courtesy NPS

Many Federal agencies and programs indirectly support historic preservation. For instance, grants from the Fish and Wildlife Service may be used to preserve wetlands, which can result in the preservation of historic viewsheds. Federal programs that promote community development may be instrumental in the adaptive re-use of historic buildings for commerce, social services, training and housing.

The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance is the comprehensive government-wide compendium of Federal programs, projects, services, and activities that provide assistance or benefits to the public. Updated annually, the Catalog contains information on both financial and non-financial assistance. The Catalog's website also offers general guidance on applying for Federal assistance and tips on preparing successful grant proposals.

Non-federal programs of national scope provide grants and training as well as technical assistance. Some professional organizations can help stewards of historic properties understand and interpret their properties. A special issue of NHL Network provides information on public and private assistance to National Historic Landmarks at the national, state and local levels.