Finding grant opportunities is the first step for many institutions looking for funding for projects such as digitization, new exhibitions, technology enhancements or improving accessibility. We've gathered together some different organizations and their grant programs. Remember, it is important to review eligibility requirements and deadlines for all opportunities carefully.
Federal Grants
Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
- Inspire! Grants for Small Museums: Supports small museums with grants of $5,000-$75,000 for projects related to lifelong learning, institutional capacity, and collections stewardship.
- Museums for America: Provides $5,000-$250,000 grants to strengthen museums' ability to serve the public through exhibitions, educational programming, digital learning resources and more.
- National Leadership Grants for Museums: Supports projects addressing critical needs in the museum field with grants up to $750,000.
- Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services Program: Provides $5,000-$250,000 to support Indian Tribes and organizations that primarily serve and represent Native Hawaiians in sustaining heritage, culture and knowledge.
- Museum Grants for African American History and Culture: Designed to build the capacity of African American museums and support the growth and development of museum professionals at African American museums.
National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)
- Preservation Assistance Grants: Provides up to $6,000 to help small and mid-sized institutions preserve humanities collections.
- Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections: Provides three levels of funding for:
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Improved conditions for collection storage and display
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Improved systems and resilience for collections
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Reduced energy usage and costs
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In-depth preservation studies and plans
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National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
The NEA provides Grants for Arts Projects to fund museum conservation and digitization projects.
State and Regional Grants
Many states offer grant funding for museums and preservation activities. Cultural institutions can check with their state arts council, humanities council, or museum association for grant opportunities.
The American Institute of Conservation (AIC) also maintains a list of State Grants for Collections Care.
Private Foundations
Numerous private foundations provide grants to museums. You can find current grant opportunities via Candid.org.
Other Resources
- The Grantsmanship Center compiles listings of the top giving foundations by state.
- Grants.gov lists all federal grant programs.
- Professional associations like the American Alliance of Museums often share grant opportunities
When exploring these grant sources, cultural institutions should carefully review eligibility requirements and deadlines. Grant writing workshops can also help museums craft more competitive applications.