WIREDGOV

Arts Council England yesterday opened applications to its Designation development fund, which will support non-national museums.

Between 2012 and 2015 a total of £2.1 million will be awarded to collections-based projects through the fund.

Designation identifies collections of national and international importance held in England's non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance. There are currently 140 Designated collections across England.

Benefitting audiences

Designation development funding will support projects that improve museum collections for the benefit of audiences, developing greater public understanding and engagement, while at the same time increasing sustainability. It will also support museums to share best practice with other organisations across the sector.

Alan Davey, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, commented:

'We're fortunate to have such inspiring, excellent and amazing Designated museum collections in this country, and it's absolutely right that we focus on protecting them. Our Designation development fund will increase research, improve care, and look at new ways that people can experience and enjoy these wonderful collections.'

Apply for funding

To apply to the Designation development fund visit the funding pages of our website.

Wider Renaissance programme

The Designation development fund sits with the Renaissance programme - the Arts Council's £43 million investment in the development of regional museums between 2012 and 2015. Renaissance includes: Major partner museums, Museum development providers, Renaissance strategic support, and a suite of national programmes.

Further information

Find out more about Designation.

Find out more about how we support museums.