The Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program, administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), provides funding to support African American museums and institutions with a focus on enhancing institutional capacity and promoting the professional growth of museum professionals. The program is designed to increase access to museum and archival collections, strengthen museum operations, and develop museum leadership. Eligible projects should align with one of two program goals: building the capacity of African American museums to serve their communities or supporting the growth and development of museum professionals.

The program supports two project categories: small projects with funding ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, which do not require cost sharing, and large projects ranging from $100,001 to $500,000, which require a one-to-one cost share. The anticipated period of performance is up to three years, starting no earlier than July 1, 2025. IMLS expects to award approximately $6,000,000 in total funding, supporting about 35 projects, with an average award size of $171,429. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by November 15, 2024, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Eligible applicants include African American museums, museum service organizations that support African American museums, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Museums must meet IMLS eligibility criteria, such as operating on a permanent basis, employing professional staff, and exhibiting collections to the public for at least 120 days annually. Museums located within larger institutions, such as universities or cultural centers, may apply independently if they function as discrete units with their own budgets. Partnerships and collaborations with other organizations are encouraged.

Applicants are required to submit a complete application package, including a project narrative, a detailed budget with justification, a performance measurement plan, and supporting documentation. The project narrative must address three core areas: project justification, project work plan, and project results. The justification should identify the need or challenge being addressed, the primary audience, and the intended beneficiaries. The work plan should outline specific activities, responsible personnel, timelines, and risk mitigation strategies. The project results must describe expected outcomes, including how the project will achieve meaningful change and ensure long-term sustainability.

Applications are evaluated through a peer review process based on the project's alignment with program goals, the feasibility and clarity of the work plan, the qualifications of key personnel, and the potential for measurable and sustained impact. For collections-related projects, improvements in access, care, or preservation of collections will also be assessed. Projects that demonstrate broad adaptability and shareable tools, models, or research findings will receive particular consideration.

Award notifications are expected in June 2025. Successful applicants must submit interim and final financial and performance reports and comply with all federal regulations, including those related to cost principles and project administration. IMLS provides technical assistance, including webinars and program guidance, to help applicants develop competitive proposals. Further information, including examples of previously funded projects and application resources, can be accessed on the IMLS website.