Museums Galleries Scotland changes grants programme to remove barriers

Having received perspectives from across the sector, Museums Galleries Scotland has taken action to remove barriers which had hitherto dissuaded individuals or organisations from applying for project funding.

The 25% match funding requirement has been removed from the Museums Development Fund and Festivals Fund. This will now mean museums are able to apply for 100% funding from any grant streams, with the match funding requirement already having been removed for the Small Project Fund last year.

While it is no longer required, match funding will still be welcomed wherever possible and those not looking to contribute will be asked to share their reasons for requesting 100% funding.

Another of the changes sees the upper limit available for the Small Project Fund rise from £5,000 to £10,000. This change was made in recognition of the inflation of project costs in recent years.

Further, the Purchase Fund operated by the organisation has now changed its name to the Equipment Fund. It is hoped this will better convey its purpose to potential applicants.

“Museums and galleries in Scotland have continued to deliver innovative and diverse projects throughout challenging times,” Lucy Casot, CEO Museums Galleries Scotland, noted. “They have maintained their place as a significant and responsive resource for their communities and visitors.

“To further our support of them we have responded to the sector’s need to remove barriers for funding projects. We encourage museums to get in touch to discuss funding options for projects they are considering.”

All grant changes will come into effect at the start of the 2020 grants programme.

More information on all MGS grant streams and application support offered by the organisation can be found at: museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk/funding/funding-overview