Grants of up to £100,000 to support museums and community partners using collections to drive inclusion, equity and social and climate justice.


Funder

Museums Association – Esmée Fairbairn Communities and Collections Fund (EFCCF)

Who can apply

UK museums and partnerships between museums and community organisations.

Two funding streams are available:

  • Core Grants – for individual museums with strong participatory and inclusion strategies

  • Partnership Project Grants – for collaborative projects between museums and community organisations

What’s funded

Projects that use museum collections to:

  • Promote inclusion and equity

  • Address social justice issues

  • Support climate justice

  • Increase community participation and co-production

The fund supports meaningful collaboration and long-term change.

How much

Up to £100,000

Since launching in 2011, the fund has awarded over £14 million to nearly 200 projects.

Key dates

  • From February 2026: contact the Museums Association to discuss ideas

  • 22 July 2026: deadline for expression of interest

  • w/c 10 August 2026: shortlist confirmation

  • 4 November 2026: second stage applications due

  • Mid December 2026: funding decisions announced

How to apply

➡️ Full guidance and eligibility details available here