Arts Council England (ACE) has issued guidance for the new Museum Transformation Programme.
The £13.6m programme, which is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, is designed to improve the financial resilience and operational sustainability of regional museums. It is also responding to the opportunities that local government reorganisation and devolution present to museums.
Emmie Kell, the director, museums and cultural property, at ACE, said: “Regional museums are central to their communities, and the Museum Transformation Programme was designed with their needs and experiences front and centre. This funding will support museums to adapt their operating models, so that they can continue to deliver their vital community role.”
Work that can be funded through the programme includes digital transformation, organisational change and work to improve income generation.
Museums can apply for a minimum of £50,000 and a maximum of £1m. The application portal opens on 1 September and the deadline for applications is midday on 30 September. The programme is for activity delivered between 2027-30.