Museums for America (2027)

Background
The Museums for America (MFA) program, administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), aims to support museums of all sizes in project-based efforts that serve the public through educational programs, exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship activities.

The program seeks to enhance the capacity of museums to engage diverse audiences and respond to community needs while preserving America's rich historical and cultural heritage.

Grant Details
The MFA program supports projects that advance a museum's capacity to serve people of all ages through experiential learning, respond to community needs, and manage collections effectively.

Key tasks include:
1) Supporting public programs for various demographics;
2) Implementing community-centered partnerships;
3) Enhancing collections management through cataloging, conservation, and digital asset management.

Projects should align with one of three goals: Lifelong Learning, Community Engagement, or Collections Stewardship.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants must be located in the U.S. or its territories and be a unit of state/local/tribal government or a private nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status.

Applicants must operate a qualifying museum that regularly exhibits objects to the public.

Period of Performance
Projects may begin on September 1, 2027, and can last from one to three years until August 31, 2030.

Grant Value
IMLS expects to award a total of $21,699,000 across approximately 122 awards. Individual grants will range from $5,000 to $350,000 with an average award amount of $177,860 based on previous years.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will be performed in museums located within the United States or its territories.