Since its inception in 1981, the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) has helped more than 5,000 small and mid-sized museums of all types strengthen operations, plan for the future, and meet standards.

Our application is now available for our February 15, 2025 deadline.

Through a one-year process of self-assessment, institutional activities, and consultative peer review with a site visit and recommendations, your museum emerges with:

• Greater alignment of activities, mission, and resources
• Analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities
• Prioritized roadmap for improving operations and meeting standards
• Practices benchmarked to standards
• Enhanced credibility with potential funders and donors
• Improved communications between staff, board, and other constituents
• Expert advice, recommendations, and resources
• Increased capacity for strategic planning
• Preparation for core document verification, accreditation or reaccreditation

MAP offers four different assessments to choose from.

Find out which one is right for your museum and how to apply.

The Insider’s Guide to MAP is an 11-minute recorded presentation covering the details about eligibility requirements, program cost, and the key components of the MAP process.

MAP is supported through a cooperative agreement between the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the American Alliance of Museums.

Contact the Museum Assessment Program (MAP), or call (202) 289-9118.