The Association of Independent Museums

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.

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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 four grant schemes – the Sustainability Scheme, the Conservation Scheme , the National Heritage Landmark Partnership Scheme and the Bob Harding Grant

  • 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 e-news mailings
  • 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.

Over half the museums in the UK are independent of government and local authorities and run as a charitable trust or company.

Independent museums owe their origins to individual and community endeavour. They are consumer and audience focussed rather than driven by external agendas.

Independent museums are guardians of some of the UK’s most important heritage assets. Over 100,000 volunteers work in independent museums, equivalent to 82% of the total workforce. Independent museums contribute up to £930m to the UK economy.

Independent museums have significantly influenced museum practice in the UK through promoting creative approaches and commercial entrepreneurship.

Independent museums are regular award winners, including the Art Fund Prize and the Museum and Heritage Awards for Excellence.



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AIM's chairman has written to The Times today, to point out that far fewer children will visit museums if the historic periods covered by the majority...
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