Congratulations on your "new" barn!
I think you're refering to the Nat'l Trust for Historic Preservation's "Barn Again" program. They don't offer any money, generally financial assistance comes as tax credits or other tax incentives. It's worth checking their website though, you might come up with something that could help you.
Try a local historic preservation group or your state's historic preservation office for info on grants, loans, etc. And yes, colleges & universities need projects for students, it can't hurt to ask.
They might also be a place to check for someone with equine facilty experience or maybe your county extension agent could help.
I don't know of any barn specialists in your area, Rudy Christian is in Burbank, Ohio (330-624-7282) or your could search the Guild's membership list to see if anyone local turns up.
Good luck!
