Museum Learning and Engagement Grants

How to apply for a Museum Learning and Engagement Grant

Please follow the steps below carefully.

Reminder: applications must be submitted using the online application form to be eligible.

Step 1: Read the Guidance Notes 

Before starting your application, please read the Museum Learning and Engagement Grants guidance notes carefully to ensure that: 

• Your organisation is eligible to apply. 

• Your project meets the aims of the programme. 

• You understand the assessment criteria and funding conditions. 

Step 2: Get Support to Develop Your Project Idea (optional but recommended)  

We have engaged development consultant Jenni Waugh to offer free 1:1 support sessions for organisations considering an application to the Museum Learning and Engagement (MLE) Grant Programme.  

To arrange a session with Jenni, please contact grants@mdmidlands.org.uk. We'll ask you to provide a brief outline of your project idea and then put you in touch with Jenni to arrange a mutually convenient time. Please make sure you have read the MLE grant guidance before attending a session. 

Step 3: Develop Your Project Proposal 

Following your discussion, develop your project plan while closely referring to the guidance, considering: 

• The need or opportunity your project addresses. 

• The audiences you want to engage. 

• The activities you will deliver. 

• The outcomes and impact you expect to achieve. 

• How you will evaluate success. 

• A realistic project timetable. 

Step 4: Prepare Your Budget 

Create a detailed project budget showing: 

• All anticipated expenditure. 

• Any income or match funding. 

• The amount of grant funding requested. 

Ensure that costs are evidenced, realistic and represent value for money. 

Step 5: Prepare your answers (optional but recommended)

If helpful, you can use the offline Word version of the application form to draft your answers before submitting online.

⚠️ Important: We do not accept applications submitted by email or as Word documents. The offline form is for preparation only:

Offline (Word) application form

Step 6: Complete the Application Form 

Complete all sections of the application form, ensuring that: 

• Questions are answered fully and clearly. 

• Information provided is accurate. 

• The budget information is consistent throughout the application. 

Step 7: Gather Supporting Documents 

Please ensure you have all required supporting documentation ready before submission. Refer to the guidance notes for what needs to be included. 

Step 8: Submit Your Application 

Submit your completed application form and all supporting documents by 5pm, 24 September 2026. 

Late or incomplete applications may not be considered. 

Assessment and Decision 

Applications will be assessed against the published criteria. You may be contacted if further information is required. Applicants will be notified by 14 October 2026 of the outcome once the assessment process has been completed.

Need Help? 

For straightforward queries, email grants@mdmidlands.org.uk or check the FAQs, which are updated regularly throughout the application period.