The Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area announced the award of 17 grants totaling $157,418.18 to help support projects across the state’s six southernmost counties of Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, George, Stone and Pearl River, focused on the mission of the MGCNHA.  These 17 projects will promote understanding of and to conserve and enhance the heritage resources of the six counties of the Mississippi Gulf Coast by telling the area's nationally significant story to residents and visitors through activities and partnerships that celebrate the area's unique history, people, traditions and landscapes.  

The goal of the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area is to enhance, conserve, promote and provide connectivity among the Coast's many heritage resources. These resources serve as a source of pride and identity for residents who are stakeholders in this conservation effort. These resources provide heritage tourists with authentic experiences reflective of the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area.  
“Residents benefit from increased awareness and appreciation of their environment, history, culture, traditions and lifestyles. The economic effects of cultural and nature tourism benefit the entire region and support the long-term enhancement and conservation of those qualities that make the Mississippi Gulf Coast unique,” states Rhonda Price, director of the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area.