Museums Empowered (2027)

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is offering the “Museums Empowered” grant program for FY 2027 to support professional development projects in U.S. museums. Up to 20 awards ranging from $5,000 to $350,000 each will fund initiatives that build staff capacity in digital technology, evaluation, and organizational management, with an emphasis on apprenticeships, AI integration, and serving rural or under‑served institutions. Projects must begin September 1 2027 and can run for up to three years. Applicants must be a U.S. museum or a qualifying parent organization, must provide cost‑share equal to the federal award, and must register in SAM.gov and Grants.gov. The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. EST on November 13 2026, with award decisions expected August 2027. • Eligible entities: State, local, Tribal governments or private non‑profits that operate a museum. • Funding: $4.3 M total, average award $214,950; $5 K–$350 K per award. • Required cost‑share: 1:1 matching from non‑federal sources. • Key focus areas: digital tools & AI, evaluation methods, organizational resilience. • Application must include a Digital Products Plan and a performance‑measurement plan.