Submit Applications for Jewish Heritage Exhibition Funding Programme

The Jewish Exhibitions and Collections grant provides European not-for-profit organisations with funding to develop, enhance, or present exhibitions focused on Jewish history, culture, and heritage. The grant supports high-quality curatorial work, innovative exhibition formats, and meaningful public engagement, with funding covering up to 70% of project costs.

Jewish Exhibitions and Collections Grant Overview

The Jewish Exhibitions and Collections grant supports not-for-profit organisations in Europe to create or improve exhibitions that showcase Jewish objects and collections. The program encourages institutions to strengthen public engagement, promote professional curatorial standards, and explore innovative physical or digital presentation methods.

Purpose and Key Objectives

The grant aims to:

• Develop or redevelop core exhibitions in museums

• Support temporary or travelling exhibitions of Jewish interest

• Enhance public understanding of Jewish history, culture, and heritage

• Promote professional curatorial practice and high-quality exhibition design

• Encourage audience engagement through interactive, educational, and inclusive programming

These objectives ensure that funded exhibitions are not only visually appealing but also culturally meaningful and educational for diverse audiences.

What the Grant Supports

The grant provides financial assistance for:

• Preliminary research and exhibition planning

• Curatorial work and professional fees

• Specialist equipment needed for exhibition development

• Exhibition design and build (excluding building renovations)

• Public engagement programmes, such as talks, performances, or related events

• Renting and adapting travelling exhibitions from other European institutions

The grant does not cover operational costs, object acquisitions, or general building renovations.

Funding Amount and Budget Proportion

Funding details include:

• Up to 70% of the total project budget (requests above 70% are not eligible)

• Core museum exhibitions: up to £75,000 per year, for a maximum of three years (£225,000 total)

• Temporary exhibitions and travelling exhibition rentals: maximum funding of £75,000

This structure encourages organisations to co-fund projects and ensures sustainable financial planning.

Who Is Eligible

Eligible applicants must:

• Be not-for-profit organisations based in Europe (EU and non-EU countries), excluding Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus

• Provide proof of non-profit or charitable status

• Include entities such as museums, libraries, archives, universities, research institutes, cultural centres, and UK-registered charities

Why This Grant Matters

Jewish heritage collections are crucial for cultural preservation, education, and public engagement. This grant allows organisations to:

• Showcase Jewish history and culture to a broad audience

• Improve exhibition quality and curatorial expertise

• Engage diverse communities, including young people and local residents

• Innovate in exhibition presentation through digital or interactive approaches

By funding these initiatives, the grant helps preserve Jewish heritage while increasing public accessibility and understanding.

How the Grant Works

Organisations follow a structured process:

1. Identify exhibitions or collections for development or enhancement

2. Develop a detailed project plan, including research, curatorial work, and engagement activities

3. Prepare a budget demonstrating that requested funds do not exceed 70% of total costs

4. Submit the application with proof of non-profit status

5. Upon approval, receive funding to support eligible project activities

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly define the exhibition’s cultural and educational impact

• Demonstrate professional curatorial standards

• Include innovative physical or digital presentation strategies

• Ensure public engagement activities are relevant and proportionate to the project budget

• Confirm eligibility and provide documentation for non-profit status

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Requesting more than 70% of total project costs

• Including non-eligible expenses, such as building renovations or object acquisitions

• Omitting proof of non-profit status

• Failing to provide clear objectives and expected outcomes for public engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of exhibitions are supported?

Core museum exhibitions, temporary exhibitions of Jewish interest, and renting/adapting travelling exhibitions from other European institutions.

How much funding is available?

Up to 70% of project costs; core museum exhibitions up to £75,000 per year for three years (£225,000 total), temporary exhibitions up to £75,000.

Who can apply?

Not-for-profit organisations in Europe, including UK charities, museums, libraries, archives, universities, research institutes, and cultural centres, excluding Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus.

What expenses are eligible?

Research, planning, curatorial work, specialist equipment, exhibition design and build, public engagement programmes, and renting/adapting travelling exhibitions.

Are operational costs or building renovations covered?

No, these expenses are excluded from funding.

Is digital engagement supported?

Yes, digital exhibition components or innovative presentation approaches are eligible if integral to the project.

Can funding exceed 70% of project costs?

No, applications requesting more than 70% of total costs are not considered.

Conclusion

The Jewish Exhibitions and Collections grant empowers European not-for-profit organisations to develop high-quality exhibitions that celebrate Jewish heritage, strengthen public engagement, and enhance curatorial expertise. By providing substantial funding, the grant supports innovation, professional practice, and meaningful community interaction, ensuring Jewish collections are preserved and appreciated by diverse audiences.