Museum Estate and Development Fund: Round 5

About the Open Call

This is an open-access capital fund targeted at non-national Accredited museums and local authorities based in England to apply for funding to undertake vital infrastructure and urgent maintenance backlogs which are beyond the scope of day-to-day maintenance budgets. The fund aims to support museums in becoming more financially resilient and environmentally responsible, increasing the environmental performance of buildings and equipment to help reduce carbon emissions in the museum sector, improving access for disabled people and accommodating diverse user needs, and strengthening contributions to local communities and regeneration by preserving landmark buildings.

What is Offered

Funding to undertake vital infrastructure and urgent maintenance backlogs with grants ranging between £50,000 and £5 million.

Requirements

Eligibility is open to non-national Accredited museums and/or local authorities based in England who are responsible for the maintenance of non-national Accredited museum buildings. A recent costed condition survey (ideally within the last four or five years, with costs updated within the last 12 months) or relevant specialist report is required. Projects must be at RIBA Work Stage 3 or equivalent. Leases must be in place for at least the required security period without break clauses. Applicants must comply with procurement regulations, seeking competitive tenders for contracts exceeding £12,000. An up-to-date access assessment (within the last five years) and policy are expected.

How to Apply

Applicants must first read the guidance in full to ensure eligibility. Then, they need to register on Grantium and familiarise themselves with the portal; new profiles can take up to ten working days for approval. An Expression of Interest (EOI) form must be submitted via Grantium. If invited, a full online application form will be available on Grantium. It is recommended to check the FAQs section for common queries before contacting customer services.