21st Century Museum Professionals Program (2027)

The 21st Century Museum Professionals (21MP) Program is a federal grant opportunity issued by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to build career pathways, strengthen professional networks, and share effective workforce education and training practices within the museum field. The program focuses on two primary goals: supporting the professional development of the current museum workforce through new training programs and assessments, and recruiting future professionals by expanding alternative pathways and adapting higher education. Priority is given to projects that support early-career professionals and non-traditional applicants, particularly those exploring the intersection of AI education and alternative credentialing. Eligible applicants must request federal funding between $100,000 and $500,000 and are required to provide a non-federal cost share of at least 1:1. The anticipated period of performance runs from August 1, 2027, to July 31, 2030, with project durations ranging from one to three years. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov Workspace by November 13, 2026. Evaluation is conducted through a peer review process focusing on project justification, the work plan, and intended results. Awardees must maintain active SAM.gov and Grants.gov registrations and comply with Uniform Guidance and IMLS-specific regulations, including strict conflict of interest policies and reporting requirements via eGMS Reach.