The 21st Century Museum Professionals Program provides funding to support the professional development of the museum workforce and the recruitment and training of future museum professionals. The program is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and focuses on strengthening career pathways, professional networks, and inclusive recruitment strategies for individuals working in the museum sector. Projects are expected to address critical needs within the workforce, advance career development, and improve training opportunities across museums, associations, and related educational institutions.

This program has two primary goals: supporting the professional development of the current museum workforce and recruiting and training future museum professionals. Projects must align with at least one goal and its associated objectives. Activities may include creating or enhancing training programs, developing evaluation strategies to identify best practices, adapting higher education programs, or offering internships, mentoring, and fellowships for underrepresented groups. Projects should be designed with measurable outcomes to ensure meaningful impact, such as improving skills, knowledge, or professional networks.

The program will award up to eight grants with a total funding amount of two million dollars, with individual awards ranging from one hundred thousand to five hundred thousand dollars. The anticipated period of performance is July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028. Applicants must provide cost share or match funds equal to or greater than the amount requested. Applications are due electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on November 15, 2024.

Eligible applicants include museums, institutions of higher education, museum associations, nonprofit organizations supporting museums, and tribal organizations that meet specific criteria. Museums applying must employ professional staff, operate for educational or cultural purposes, and exhibit objects to the public for at least 120 days per year. Institutions within parent organizations may apply independently if they operate as discrete units with separate budgets and authority. Partnerships and collaborations with other entities are encouraged to expand project reach and impact.

Applications must include required documents such as the narrative, budget form, organizational profile, and a performance measurement plan. The narrative is limited to seven pages and must address project justification, work plan, and expected results. Additional documents, including resumes, letters of commitment, and supporting materials, may also be submitted. Proposals will be evaluated based on alignment with program goals, the quality of the work plan, the experience of project personnel, and the potential impact of the results.

The IMLS will use a peer review process to assess applications. Reviewers will evaluate proposals based on the project’s justification, the clarity and feasibility of the work plan, and the likelihood of achieving meaningful results. Successful applicants will be notified by June 2025, with projects starting no earlier than July 1, 2025. Reporting requirements include interim and final financial and performance reports submitted through the IMLS grants management system.

Applicants are encouraged to contact IMLS program officers for guidance and to participate in webinars designed to assist with the application process. Additional resources, including sample applications and detailed instructions, are available on the IMLS website. All project activities and expenditures must comply with federal regulations and cost principles outlined in 2 CFR Part 200.