Expressions of Interest are open for the 2026 round of this Fund. Run by the Museums Association, it supports a range of projects that bring collections closer to people.

Museums, galleries and heritage organisations in the UK can apply for grants of up to £100,000 for projects lasting up to three years. The fund expects to award around 12 grants in total, across two funding rounds.

The overall purpose of the Fund remains the same but with updated processes to better support the best of the types of applications. It will place more emphasis on equitable working, supporting wellbeing and legacy planning.

There are now core grants to single museum organisations for strategic development of their inclusive collections work, and partnership project grants for museums and community organisations working equitably with collections to achieve shared aims for inclusion.

Pre-application advice on eligibility and for help to develop applications is available.

The next deadline to express interest is 21 January 2026.

Shortlisted applicants will be advised week commencing 23 February and invited to submit a second stage application by 13 May 2026.

Grants will be awarded end-June 2026.

For more details, including contact details for advice, visit the Museums Association Esmee Fairbairn Communities & Collections Fund webpage.