Inspire Grants for Small Museums (2027)

Background
Inspire Grants for Small Museums (Inspire) is a special initiative of the Museums for America grant program, administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The program aims to support small museums across various disciplines, including rural and remote institutions, particularly those that have not previously received federal funding. The goal is to enhance the capacity of these museums to serve their communities through educational programs, exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship activities.

Grant Details
The Inspire program funds project-based efforts aimed at building the capacity of small museums. Key tasks include:
1) Supporting the development of experiential learning and discovery in small museums;
2) Enhancing management and care of collections in small museums. Projects should align with IMLS's mission to advance knowledge and learning opportunities, promote public engagement, and support collections care and management. Applicants are encouraged to consider how their proposals relate to OMS’s field-wide programs and initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants must be located in the U.S. or its territories, be a unit of state, local or tribal government or a private nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status. They must operate a qualifying small museum that employs professional staff and regularly exhibits objects to the public. Special consideration is given to institutions serving rural or remote communities.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance for projects may range from one to three years, starting from September 1, 2027.

Grant Value
The total funding available through this announcement is $3,000,000. Individual grant awards may range from $5,000 to $75,000 depending on project size:
Small Project ($5,000 - $25,000)
and
Large Project ($25,001 - $75,000). The average amount awarded in previous years was approximately $43,147.

Place of Performance
The grant activities are expected to be performed within the United States or its territories.