GrantGather

Grants / Arts

Museums Empowered (2027)

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Deadline
November 13, 2026in 24 days
Award size
$5,000 to $350,000About 20 awards
Matching funds
RequiredYou must contribute some of the cost
Fit for small groups
Possible fit

In plain language

This grant helps museums and related organizations with training and professional development for their staff. It supports projects that help museums grow and improve. The grant is part of a larger program called Museums for America.

The money can pay for

  • Training for museum staff
  • Professional development programs
  • Projects that help museums grow
  • Improving museum operations

Who can apply

Organizations that are eligible will be described in the Notice of Funding Opportunity, but the grant is meant for museums and related groups.

Is it a fit for a small group?

Possible fit. This grant is for museums and related organizations, which may not include all small community nonprofits, but some may qualify if they fit the criteria.

Before you apply

  • Matching funds are required
  • Eligibility details are in the Notice of Funding Opportunity
  • Only 20 awards will be given
  • 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

Museums Empowered: Professional Development Opportunities for Museum Staff is a special initiative of the Museums for America grant program, designed to support projects that use learning and training to generate change and growth within museums of all types and sizes.

Opportunity number
ME-FY27
Posted
September 1, 2026
Total funding
$4.3 million
Eligible applicants
Others (see eligibility details)
Eligibility details
See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for program eligibility criteria.
Assistance listing
45.301 Museums for America
Agency contact
Institute of Museum and Library Services
imls-museumgrants@imls.gov
202-653-4634
Open the official listing on Grants.govAgency’s full announcement

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