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Grants / Arts

Museums for America (2027)

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Deadline
November 13, 2026in 24 days
Award size
$5,000 to $350,000About 122 awards
Matching funds
RequiredYou must contribute some of the cost
Fit for small groups
Possible fit

In plain language

The Museums for America grant helps museums pay for projects that teach the public, share exhibits, and work with the community. It supports museums of all sizes and types. The grant can help with improving collections and working with others.

The money can pay for

  • Educational programs
  • Exhibits
  • Community partnerships
  • Collections stewardship

Who can apply

Organizations that are considered museums or related to museums may be eligible, but specific details are in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.

Is it a fit for a small group?

Possible fit. This grant is for museums, which may not include all small community nonprofits, but some may qualify if they are considered museums or work closely with them.

Before you apply

  • Matching funds are required
  • Eligibility details are in the Notice of Funding Opportunity
  • The grant is for project-based efforts
  • Federal applicants need an active registration at SAM.gov and a Grants.gov account. Registration can take several weeks, so start early.

This summary was written by GrantGather with AI, based on the official listing. It can contain mistakes. Check the official listing on Grants.gov before you apply.

From the official listing

he Museums for America (MFA) program invests in museums of all sizes – from small to large – and disciplines in project-based efforts to serve the public through educational programs and exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship activities.

Opportunity number
MFA-FY27
Posted
September 1, 2026
Total funding
$22 million
Eligible applicants
Others (see eligibility details)
Eligibility details
See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for eligibility requirements.
Assistance listing
45.301 Museums for America
Agency contact
Institute of Museum and Library Services
imls-museumgrants@imls.gov
202-653-4634

Nonprofits are eligible here through the “Others” category. Read the eligibility details carefully.