The Welsh Government has announced the Enhanced Local Sector Support for Museums, Archives & Libraries Grant Scheme, which is aimed at strengthening the local cultural sector.
The scheme is part of the Priorities for Culture initiative, launched by Jack Sargeant MS, minister for culture, skills and social partnership, in May 2025.
The initiative aims to create a collaborative vision for the future of culture in Wales.
The new grant scheme will provide revenue funding to eligible organisations, helping them to build capacity and deliver on specific ambitions set out in the Priorities for Culture.
These ambitions include making culture more inclusive, accessible, and diverse, reflecting the needs and aspirations of children and young people, and strengthening the connection between generations.
The scheme also aims to support and record Wales’ intangible cultural heritage, improve the cultural sector as a place to work and volunteer, and encourage leadership and collaboration in sustainable development.
The new programme will see an investment of just over £2 million across the financial years 2025-26 and 2026-27.
It complements existing initiatives such as the Transformation Capital Grants Programme and marks a significant step forward in providing revenue funding for the local sector.
Local authorities and cultural trusts are being encouraged to collaborate and submit joint bids.
The Welsh Government believes that by pooling expertise, resources, and local knowledge, these partnerships can deliver more impactful and sustainable outcomes for communities across Wales.
The grant application window is open until 10am on Monday, September 29, 2025.
The announcement of the new grant scheme comes as part of a written statement issued during recess to keep members informed.
The minister has indicated that he would be happy to make a further statement or answer questions on the new scheme when the Senedd returns.
The launch of the new grant scheme is in line with the Welsh Government’s commitment to supporting the local cultural sector, with a particular focus on museums, archives, and libraries.