Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Supporting Independent Museums Across the UK
We are a dedicated organisation that has been championing the interests of independent museums, galleries, and heritage institutions across the UK since 1975. Our mission is to connect, support, and strengthen these cultural entities through practical assistance, funding opportunities, and professional development resources. With over 1,000 member organisations, we foster a collaborative community where knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas are shared to ensure the sustainability and growth of the sector. Our expertise spans grant management, training programmes, policy advocacy, and tailored consultancy services. We combine decades of sector-specific experience with a deep understanding of the challenges facing independent museums, enabling us to deliver targeted solutions that address real-world operational needs.Our team of specialists works tirelessly to provide actionable guidance on governance, collections management, visitor engagement, and financial sustainability. As a trusted authority in the heritage sector, we maintain rigorous standards of excellence while remaining adaptable to evolving industry demands. Our commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and member-centric service delivery underpins every initiative we undertake.
Services
Membership Support
Grant Funding
Training Programmes
Collections Management
Policy Advocacy
Supplier Directory
Event Organisation
Research Publications
Governance Guidance
Digital Resources
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer 50 years of specialist expertise in museum governance and heritage management
- Our team includes former museum professionals with hands-on sector experience
- We provide exclusive access to grant funding and cost-saving member benefits
- Our training programmes are developed in consultation with industry experts
- We maintain a curated directory of heritage sector suppliers and service providers
Services
Membership Support
We provide comprehensive membership benefits including networking opportunities, exclusive resources, and professional development. Our support helps museums access sector-specific expertise and collaborative initiatives. Members receive tailored guidance on governance, collections care, and sustainability practices.
Grant Funding
We administer grant programmes to support museum development and project funding. Our grants help institutions implement conservation projects, improve visitor facilities, and enhance educational offerings. We provide application guidance and post-award support to ensure successful project delivery.
Training Programmes
We deliver specialist training covering museum operations, collections management, and governance. Our programmes combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications for immediate implementation. Participants gain sector-specific skills through workshops and online learning resources.
Policy Advocacy
We represent museum interests in policy discussions with government bodies and cultural organisations. Our advocacy work focuses on preserving sector-specific regulations and securing funding opportunities. We provide members with policy updates and consultation responses.
Supplier Directory
We maintain a curated directory of heritage sector suppliers and service providers. The directory connects museums with vetted professionals in conservation, security, and exhibition design. Members receive preferential rates through negotiated supplier partnerships.
People
Lisa Ollerhead
Director
Former DCMS policy expert with five years' experience in museum sector development. Leads AIM's strategic direction and advocacy efforts. Specialises in museum governance and funding frameworks.
Margaret Harrison
Head of Programmes
25-year museum sector veteran with 14 years as collections management consultant. Oversees AIM's training and development initiatives. Expert in collections care and interpretation strategies.
Matt Smith
Head of Communications
Marketing professional with 20 years' experience in higher education. Manages AIM's external communications and member engagement strategies. Focuses on sector storytelling and digital outreach.
Catrin Salvatore
Marketing Officer
Marketing specialist with 20+ years' retail sector experience. Coordinates AIM's eNews, social media, and website content. Develops integrated campaigns to promote member institutions.
Fiona Woolley
Programmes and Grants Officer
20-year museum professional with curatorial and collections management expertise. Administers grant programmes and provides project support. Specialises in heritage interpretation and education initiatives.
Questions
What membership benefits does AIM offer?
Our members receive grant funding opportunities, professional development training, policy updates, supplier discounts, and access to a collaborative network of heritage professionals.
How can museums apply for AIM grants?
Museums can apply through our online portal during open funding rounds. We provide application guidance and offer support to develop strong project proposals.
What training programmes are available?
We offer workshops on governance, collections management, visitor engagement, and digital strategies. Programmes include both in-person events and online learning modules.
Do you provide insurance guidance for museums?
While we don't offer insurance directly, our supplier directory includes specialist museum insurers and risk management consultants for tailored coverage solutions.
How do you support new museums?
We provide start-up guidance, governance frameworks, and access to sector experts for new museum projects through our dedicated resources and mentoring programmes.
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