National Leadership Grants for Museums (2026)

The National Leadership Grants for Museums program, administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), supports projects that address critical needs across the museum sector. The program seeks to catalyze advancements in museum practices through the development and dissemination of replicable models, research findings, innovative tools, and collaborative strategies. It is part of IMLS’s broader mission to support and empower U.S. museums and affiliated institutions through grantmaking, research, and policy development. The program is rooted in three primary goals: enhancing museum-based learning and engagement practices, strengthening community responsiveness, and identifying solutions to widespread collections care and conservation challenges. The FY 2026 funding opportunity for this grant program offers awards between $50,000 and $750,000 for projects with durations of one to three years. Total program funding for this cycle is estimated at $5.8 million, with approximately 15 awards anticipated. Non-research projects require a 1:1 cost share from non-federal sources, whereas research projects do not. Applications are due by March 13, 2026, and awarded projects must begin on September 1, 2026. The program emphasizes high-impact initiatives that generate models or tools that can be broadly adapted and shared throughout the museum field, whether through practice-based implementation or applied research. Eligible applicants include museums; museum service organizations and associations; institutions of higher education; and nonprofit or governmental organizations that operate or support museums. Applicants must be located in the U.S. or its territories. The program defines museums broadly, including art museums, science and technology centers, botanical gardens, aquariums, and more. Eligible institutions must use professional staff and offer public exhibitions for at least 120 days per year. Institutions embedded within larger organizations (such as a museum within a university) must meet specific conditions to apply independently, such as having a distinct budget and the authority to submit applications on their own behalf. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 13, 2026. The application package includes required documents such as the SF-424S form, program information form, narrative, schedule of completion, budget form and justification, resumes of key staff, and a performance measurement plan. Research projects additionally require a public access plan. Applicants are encouraged to participate in pre-application webinars and to consult with IMLS program officers for guidance. Peer review plays a central role in application evaluation. Reviewers assess alignment with the selected program goal and objective, evidence of need, clarity of work plan, staff qualifications, resource adequacy, and potential for project impact and sustainability. Projects are also reviewed for effectiveness, efficiency, quality, and timeliness as measured through a performance plan. Award notices will be issued by August 2026, and grantees will be required to adhere to federal reporting and compliance requirements throughout the period of performance. To support applicants, IMLS provides pre-recorded webinars and personalized counseling calls. For questions regarding the program, contact Helen Wechsler, Supervisory Grants Management Specialist, at [email protected] or 202-653-4779. The full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and application resources are available on the IMLS website. This grant program is expected to recur annually, with March deadlines and September project starts. It remains one of IMLS’s flagship funding opportunities to foster innovation, inclusion, and impact across the nation’s museum landscape.

Reviewers value clarity, replicability, and field impact. Align clearly with one program goal and objective. Include strong dissemination and performance measurement strategies.