GrantPostedDiscretionary

Museums for America (2026)

Institute of Museum and Library Services
MFA-FY26
Application Deadline
Mar 13, 2026
Closed
Days Remaining
0
Deadline passed
Award Ceiling
$300,000
Total Program Funding
$21,699,000

Grant Opportunity Analysis

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is inviting grant applications for the "Museums for America" (MFA) program for Fiscal Year 2026, aimed at supporting museums in project-based initiatives that enhance public service through educational programs, exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship. Eligible applicants include units of state, local, or Tribal government, as well as private non-profit organizations that operate as museums and meet specific definitional criteria. With an estimated total funding of $21,699,000, the program anticipates awarding approximately 122 grants ranging from $5,000 to $300,000, with a requirement for a 1:1 non-federal cost share. Applications are due by March 13, 2026, and interested parties can find more information and contact the grantor at imls-museumgrants@imls.gov or visit the program's webpage for further details.

Eligible Applicants

Others
Additional Eligibility Information

See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for eligibility requirements.

Grant Documents

1 Files
fy26-oms-mfa-NOFO.pdf
PDF888 KB1/16/2026
AI Summary
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is inviting grant applications for its “Museums for America” (MFA) program for Fiscal Year 2026, with applications due by March 13, 2026. This funding opportunity, identified as MFA-FY26 (Assistance Listing Number 45.301), seeks to support museums in project-based initiatives that serve the public through educational programs, exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship. The program emphasizes projects that preserve American history, foster appreciation for American heritage, utilize new technologies like AI, encourage civil dialogue, and serve rural and remote communities. Eligible applicants include units of state, local, or Tribal government, or private non-profit organizations that operate as museums, meet specific definitional criteria (e.g., professional staff, regular public exhibition), and are located in the U.S. or its territories. Awards are anticipated to range from $5,000 to $300,000, with an estimated total funding of $21,699,000 for approximately 122 awards. A key requirement is a 1:1 non-federal cost share. The application process involves multiple required documents, including a Narrative, Budget Form, and Performance Measurement Plan, all to be submitted electronically via Grants.gov. The selection process includes eligibility checks and peer review based on project justification, work plan, and anticipated results. Successful applicants will be notified around August 2026, with projects beginning September 1, 2026.

Related Grant Opportunities

Project Timeline

postedOriginal Opportunity PostedJan 13, 2026
deadlineApplication DeadlineMar 13, 2026

Funding Details

Award Ceiling
$300,000
Award Floor
$5,000
Est. Total Program Funding
$21,699,000
Expected Awards
122
Cost sharing required

Agency & Classification

Agency
Institute of Museum and Library Services(IMLS)
Funding Category
Humanities
Funding Instrument
Grant

Grantor Contact

CFDA Numbers

45.301

Official Sources