Museums for America (2027)

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is offering the Museums for America (MFA) grant program for FY 2027. Up to 122 awards will be made, each ranging from $5,000 to $350,000, to support project‑based museum initiatives that advance lifelong learning, community engagement, and collections stewardship. Eligible applicants are U.S. museums (or parent entities) that are nonprofit or governmental units, have professional staff, and exhibit objects to the public at least 120 days per year. Projects must begin September 1 2027 and may run for up to three years (Sept 1 2027 – Aug 31 2030). Cost‑share equal to the federal award amount is required. Applications are submitted electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EST on November 13 2026. Funding is discretionary and subject to availability. • Eligible entities: U.S. museums, tribal museums, museum‑parent nonprofits, or government units. • Funding range per award: $5 K – $350 K (average $178 K). • Project focus areas: educational programs, exhibitions, community partnerships, collections care, digital initiatives, AI‑enhanced visitor experiences. • Required cost‑share: 1:1 matching from non‑federal sources. • Application portal: Grants.gov; SAM.gov registration required. • Anticipated award notifications: August 2027; performance period: Sep 2027 – Aug 2030.