association of independent museums
association of independent museums

AIM (the Association of Independent Museums) is the national UK body connecting, supporting and representing independent museums.

Founded in 1977 in response to the growing number of community-based projects seeking to preserve locally and nationally-important heritage, AIM has grown to become a respected sector group, consulted on national policy and providing a thriving network for members.

Independent museums range from small local organisations, mainly operated by volunteers, to large institutions, many operating as charitable trusts, and represent over half the museum provision in the UK.


The AIM 2012 Conference

Would You Go Back? Growing the Museum Experience.

The annual AIM Conference will take place on 14-16 June at STEAM: Museum of the Great Western Railway, in conjunction with the National Trust at Heelis, Swindon, Wiltshire, sponsored by Development Partners and Adlib. 

The theme for our 2012 Conference will be the visitor experience. 

What makes a museum visit a successful one?

How can we improve what we offer our customers?

Will they come again?

To book your place at this years Conference click here

What AIM can do for you


  • Be part of a thriving and growing network of independent museums, heritage centres and historical interpretation projects
  • Have a strong voice at national level, through AIM’s advocacy with a wide range of organisations
  • Benefit from training and knowledge, through AIM annual conference and country-wide workshops
  • Apply for support from AIM’s two grant schemes – the Sustainability Scheme and the Conservation Scheme
  • Keep up to date with museum and heritage sector issues and practical information through the bi-monthly AIM Bulletin, AIM Focus papers and the AIM website
  • Celebrate with others the innovative, entrepreneurial, commercial and user-friendly approach shared by AIM members
  • Membership is also welcomed from individuals and groups from all sectors interested in AIM’s approach and activities.

Latest News


AIM E-News – January 2012 – Number 29
ACE announces Renaissance Major Partner museums … and details of the new Museum Development Fund. AIM CONFERENCE, Would you go back? Find out how to provide an outstanding visitor experience at the next AIM Conference – 14-16 Ju...
Posted : 27/01/2012 08:17:40

AIM E-News – December 2011 – Number 28

Posted : 19/12/2011 11:59:43

Significant areas of England left without Renaissance funding
No funding for East Midlands and Museums Sheffield to appeal decision
Sharon Heal, 24.01.2012

Major grant allocations announced
ACE awards £20m Renaissance funding to 16 museums and partnerships
Patrick Steel, 24.01.2012

National Gallery hit by strike action
Gallery attendants walk out over reduced staffing levels
Rebecca Atkinson, 23.01.2012

Museum improvement fund awards £4m
First round of awards announced
Rebecca Atkinson, 23.01.2012

New director for Mosi announced
Director of learning at NMSI to take up director post
Rebecca Atkinson, 20.01.2012

Art Fund launches £75,000 pot for craft acquisitions
100% grants available ahead of international craft fair
Geraldine Kendall, 18.01.2012