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Budget rules for IMLS Museums for America: amounts, cost share and documentation
Summary
IMLS specifies MFA budgets must request $5,000–$250,000 in federal funds, include at least a 1:1 non-federal cost share, follow federal allowability rules (2 CFR 200), and attach a budget justification showing itemized costs and computations.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services laid out budget rules for Museums for America applications. Mark Bridal said applicants may request between $5,000 and $250,000 in federal funds; requests outside that range risk application rejection. All projects require at least a 1:1 non-federal cost share, which may include cash, staff time, volunteer time, third-party contributions, foundation grants, or state and local government support, but may not come from other federal sources.
Bridal advised keeping the budget aligned to the project scope and scale, and explained the IMLS budget form accommodates up to three years of activities. He reminded applicants that all costs included—whether charged to grant funds or provided as cost share—must be allowable under federal rules and auditable. He cited the relevant federal regulations as Title 2, Chapter 2, Part 200 (commonly cited as 2 CFR 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards).
In the budget justification, applicants should list salaries and wages by person, show base salary and percentage of time, detail unit costs for supplies and equipment, and include vendor quotes where appropriate so reviewers can "see the math."
