The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has released 13 Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs), all due March 13th. Funding varies by program and project type, with the largest grants being $750K for three years (e.g., National Leadership Grants for Museums). Cost sharing is required for some projects.
While specific program goals and objectives vary, IMLS as a whole is especially interested in funding new technologies (including AI) to enhance collections and visitor experiences. Many of the solicitations also have lifelong learning, community engagement or capacity-building goals. All submissions require a two-page Performance Measurement Plan for evaluating the project’s effectiveness, efficiency, quality and timeliness. To that end, IMLS funds can be used for third-party program evaluation.
You can read more about how to apply for a grant here, The NOFOs themselves go through the application process step-by-step and include many helpful checklists, charts and graphics. They’re excellent resources that you’ll want to use throughout the proposal process. We also strongly encourage you to set up a meeting with a program officer. They’re happy to talk about program ideas.
For that matter, we’re happy to speak with you, too. Rockman et al Cooperative has extensive experience evaluating museum and library programming, including many IMLS grants. You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call to discuss your program evaluation needs. We hope you’ll be in touch!