Grant Resources at Your Fingertips: Essential Links for Museums and Libraries

Grant Resources at Your Fingertips: Essential Links for Museums and Libraries

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) 

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:
    • Improved conditions for collection storage and display
    • Improved systems and resilience for collections
    • Reduced energy usage and costs
    • In-depth preservation studies and plans

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

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.

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