The Museums for America (MFA) grant funds museum projects of all sizes to support public education, community partnerships, and care of collections.
Funder: Institute of Museum and Library Services
Due Dates: November 13, 2026: Full application deadline
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$350,000 per award | Estimated total program funding: $21,699,000 | Typical grant period: 1–3 years
Summary: Supports project-based efforts by U.S. museums to serve the public through education, community engagement, and collections stewardship.
Key Information: 1:1 non-federal cost share required; eligibility limited to qualifying museums and related organizations.
This grant program provides support for museums of all sizes and disciplines in the United States, enabling them to deliver public service through educational programs, exhibitions, community partnerships, and stewardship of collections. The goals are to enhance museums’ capacity to serve diverse audiences, address community needs, and manage collections. Funding is intended for discrete, project-based activities that align with one of three program goals: Lifelong Learning, Community Engagement, or Collections Stewardship and Access.