Funding for museums & galleries

The Wolfson Foundation provides funding for museums and galleries to improve the display and interpretation of nationally significant collections for the public. The Foundation generally awards grants towards refurbishing or creating new galleries and, occasionally to education and learning spaces. Applicant museums or galleries should be operated by a registered charity or a local authority, be fully accredited under the Museum Accreditation Scheme, and hold a permanent collection of national significance. Projects should aim to achieve excellent interpretation of permanent collections of national significance, better public engagement with and understanding of collections, increased numbers of visitors to museums and galleries, improved future sustainability of the organisation, or conservation of architectural heritage. The Foundation runs a two-stage application process with funding rounds twice annually, making decisions in June and December. Grants typically range from £50,000 to £500,000, with a minimum grant amount of £15,000. Match funding is required if project cost exceeds £50,000.