21st Century Museum Professionals Program (2026)

Background
The 21st Century Museum Professional (21MP) grant program is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). It aims to advance, support, and empower America’s museums through grantmaking, research, and policy development. This program specifically supports projects that build career pathways, strengthen professional networks, and identify effective workforce education and training practices in the museum field. The initiative aligns with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, emphasizing the role of museums as custodians of America's historical and cultural heritage.

Grant Details
The 21MP program prioritizes projects that provide alternative pathways to upskill early-career professionals and create opportunities for non-traditional applicants to enter the museum workforce. Projects should focus on:
1) Developing new or enhanced professional development and training programs for the museum workforce;
2) Supporting assessment and evaluation of training programs to identify effective practices;
3) Expanding pathways into the museum field by adapting higher education programs;
4) Supporting assessment and evaluation of recruitment and training programs. Additionally, projects that creatively use new technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve visitor experiences are encouraged.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include units of state, local or Tribal government, private nonprofit organizations with tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code, museums or organizations related to the museum field, or institutions of higher education located in the U.S. or its territories. Native American Tribal organizations are also encouraged to apply. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to serving rural and remote communities.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance for funded projects is from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029. Projects may be carried out for one to three years.

Grant Value
The total funding available for this grant opportunity is $2,000,000. Individual awards are expected to range from $100,000 to $500,000 with an average award amount around $250,000.

Place of Performance
Projects must be performed within the United States or any U.S. Territories.