Application to this funding is open for small and medium-sized museums, to support core museum activities like collections care and conservation.

Grants of up to £20,000 are available, from the Association of Independent Museums (AIM).

There is a total funding pot of £300,000 for the programme.

The Fund combines the existing collections care and conservation support from the Pilgrim Trust with funding from the Julia Rausing Trust. It aims to allow museums to create projects based on their collection needs, which improve knowledge, care and access to the nation’s heritage.

Eligible applicants must be AIM members and be UK-registered charities or public bodies with annual visitor numbers of fewer than 50,000.

The next deadline for Expressions of Interest for this autumn’s funding round is 5pm on Friday 7 August 2026.

 Feedback will be shared following a panel meeting, in 4-6 weeks.

Successful applicants will be invited to submit a full project plan by Friday 25 September 2026.

Pre-application and accessibility support is available from the AIM Programmes team on request.

For full details, visit the AIM Museum Fundamentals grant webpage.