Application to the autumn round of 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 in 2025, with two application windows, in the spring and autumn.

The Fund combines the existing collections care and conservation support from the Pilgrim Trust with new 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 the autumn funding round is 5pm on Friday 8 August 2025.

Feedback following a panel meeting will be shared before the end of August.

Successful applicants will be invited to submit a full project plan by Friday 26 September 2025.

Eligible museums can register interest by booking an informal discussion with Fiona Woolley, AIM’s Grants and Programmes Officer. Email programmes@aimmuseums.co.uk to book an appointment.

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