Inspire Grants for Small Museums (2027)

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is offering the Inspire Grants for Small Museums – a competitive grant program aimed at strengthening the capacity of small, often rural or remote, museums across the United States. Up to 75 awards will be made, with individual grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $75,000 for project‑based activities that enhance experiential learning, community engagement, and collections stewardship. Eligible applicants include state, local, tribal, or private nonprofit entities that operate a qualifying museum. Projects must begin September 1, 2027 and can run for one to three years. Applications are submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on November 13, 2026. Cost‑share is required for large projects (>$25,000) but not for small projects. The program emphasizes innovative use of technology (including AI), digital product creation, and alignment with federal executive orders on cultural heritage. • Eligible entities: U.S. state, local, tribal governments or private nonprofit museums (including those that have never received federal funding). • Funding pool: $3 million total; average award $43,147. • Grant size: $5‑25 k (small projects) or $25,001‑75 k (large projects). • Project start: September 1, 2027; performance period up to August 31, 2030. • Application deadline: November 13, 2026 (Grants.gov). • Required registrations: SAM.gov (UEI) and Grants.gov. • Cost‑share: 1:1 required for large projects; none for small projects. • Evaluation criteria: effectiveness, efficiency, quality, timeliness, plus alignment with IMLS goals.