On Display!: Improved display and security

Applications closed

We are delighted to be offering our popular On Display! grants again in 2025. This year, with thanks to funding from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, On Display! is available to help museums improve the display and security of their collections. 

Many museums have objects they would love to have on display but are unable to do so due to their condition or a lack of suitable display options or security.  

Thanks to On Display! eligible museums in the South West can apply for up to £3000 to enhance their visitor experience through areas such as improved display cases, collection care, security measures such as alarms and CCTV, and overall exhibit presentation. 

Full application information will be available shortly. If you have any questions or to discuss a potential application, please contact your local Museum Development Officer or our Conservation Development Officer for further advice. 

A pre-recorded presentation from our Conservation Development Officer, Helena Jaeschke, will also be available to assist applicants.  

Scheme aims

• Collections development: museums will be able to display object(s) that have previously, or recently, been stored away from public view due to their condition or lack of suitable display options.   

Grants available

• Individual applications of up to £3,000 per museum organisation, (minimum grant £1,000)  
• Cash match funding is not required but is strongly encouraged 

Eligible museums 

To be eligible to apply for an On Display! grant, museums must: 

• Be based in the South West region (including Hampshire, Solent and Isle of Wight) 

• Be Accredited or officially Working Towards Accreditation 

Unfortunately NPO and national organisations are not eligible to apply.

Timelines and deadlines

• Applications open: Monday 28 April 2025
• Application deadline: 12 Noon Monday 19 May 2025
• Notification of application outcome: Friday 30 May 2025
• Deadline for award acceptance for successful applicants: 12 Noon Friday 6 June 2025
• Successful applicants may start their projects: Monday 9 June 2025
• Projects must be completed by: Friday 6 February 2026
• Project claims must be received by: 12 Noon Friday 13 February 2026
• Project claims balances to be paid two weeks after project reporting processes are complete