The International Council of Museums (ICOM) is excited to announce an opportunity for financial support aimed at enriching the impending 27th General Conference scheduled for November 2025 in Dubai. Supported by the prestigious Getty Foundation, the Participation Grants are designed to promote the active involvement of a diverse range of participants in discussions surrounding the evolving role of museums, especially in rapidly changing communities.

Set to unfold under the resonating theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the Dubai conference anticipates the participation of thousands of museum professionals, scholars, policymakers, and advocates from around the globe. With the mission of promoting cultural dialogue and enhancing the suitability of museum practices, this event will explore innovative approaches to responding to demographic and social changes, showcasing how museums can serve as catalysts for community engagement, education, and reconciliation.

Grant Application Details

Prospective attendees interested in applying for the Participation Grants are encouraged to submit their applications online by March 14, 2025, at 23:59 CET. ICOM aims to ensure inclusivity in defining who participates in the important conversations at the conference, thus children's representatives, emerging professionals, students, and voices from underrepresented demographics are especially encouraged to apply.

"We recognize that the future of museums depends on the rich diversity of perspectives," said ICOM Director General, Dr. Amina Mamou. "The Participation Grants represent our commitment to fostering an inclusive professional environment where every voice counts and every narrative is acknowledged."

Those who apply can expect notifications regarding the selection outcomes by mid-May 2025. Details about grant coverage make it essential for applicants to understand that final confirmations, including accepted applicants confirming their participation, will be requested within two weeks of notification. This process ensures that the most impactful and underserved candidates receive the necessary financial support.

Broader Impact on the Global Museum Community

The conference in Dubai poses a substantial opportunity to foster global networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among an increasingly diverse set of professionals in the museum field. As museums around the world face rapid transformation due in large part to socio-political and economic factors, the discussions at this conference are expected to cover vital topics, including embracing digital transformation, sustainability practices, decolonization of exhibitions, and innovative community engagement strategies.

To maintain the relevance of museums in the twenty-first century, ICOM emphasizes that integrating diverse perspectives into programming and collections will be integral to their evolution. By making it financially possible for a broader cohort of professionals to attend, the organization is hopeful that the outcomes of the conference will yield significant strides for cultural inclusiveness.

As preparations continue for the Dubai conference, museums, and related institutions are urged to galvanize within their communities in preparation for this momentous event where new contributions to the discourse on the future of museums globally will be developed.

Attendees aiming to make a multifaceted impact in their work with museums should keep a close watch on ICOM’s website for further information regarding funding opportunities, the conference agenda, and how to maximize local engagement.

For further details on the Participation Grants, applicants can visit: ICOM The Future of Museum

Whether you are a seasoned museum professional or an emerging voice in the arena of cultural heritage, the chance to engage and potentially shape the future of museums in critical dialogue is just an application away. Don’t miss your opportunity to influence history and learn amidst the magnificent backdrop of Dubai!