Cultural and Historical Support Grant
Forecasted
Cultural and Historical Support Grant supports Pennsylvania museums and official county historical societies with operating funds to address institutional needs and strengthen the museum community.
Funder: Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Museums: $2,500–$65,000; official county historical societies: up to $8,000; one-year grant period
Summary: General operating support for eligible Pennsylvania museums and official county historical societies to address institutional needs.
Key Information: Museums generally need operating budgets exceeding $100,000 and one full-time professional staff member or approved equivalent.
Description
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) provides Cultural and Historical Support Grants using funds designated in its state operating budget. The program strengthens Pennsylvania’s museum community through general operating assistance, allowing recipients to determine and describe how funding will address their primary needs. Its goals include supporting institutions not served by other state agency funding programs and achieving geographical balance in grant distribution. PA Museums assists PHMC with administration.
Support covers everyday museum operations, including administrative, program, and fundraising expenses. PHMC encourages professional standards and responsible stewardship of collections and resources held in the public trust. Participation in American Alliance of Museums (AAM) best-practice programs is not required, but applicants must disclose whether they participate.
