News

Funding support becomes available for independent museums

The Museums Recovery Fund opened yesterday (2 February) to accredited and non-accredited independent museums thanks to the further £1 million funding from the Scottish Government. Independent museums in need of support to operate and adapt in response to the challenges and opportunities arising from the pandemic can apply for grants of a size determined by their operating costs, up to £90,000. The grants be used to support:

  • core operating costs
  • activity to recover visitor numbers and spend including marketing, special events and restart costs
  • activity to assist the implementation of new business priorities and increase resilience

The Fund is open to applications until 5pm on Friday, 11 March but potential applicants should note that, before starting to complete an online application and prior to 5pm on Friday 25 February, they are required to register their intention to apply by emailing the Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) Grants team at grants@museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk. They will then be provided with advice on the suitability of proposals and how to make the most effective case for funding. Prospective applicants should also note that non-accredited museums that haven’t previously applied to MGS for funding will firstly need to submit an eligibility questionnaire by Friday 18 February. Further information on the Museums Recovery Fund and guidance on how apply can be found here.

The Museums Capital Fund is still open to all accredited and non-accredited museums to support the capital costs of projects that will have a demonstrable impact on the attractions’ long-term resilience. Potential applicants must contact the MGS Grants Team by 5pm, Friday 4 February with an outline of their proposal. The fund will close on 14 February and queries on it can be addressed to grants@museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk.