Please note: MAP is no longer federally funded by IMLS.

To continue the impact of this popular and long-running program, AAM will continue to offer both the classic option and some new alternatives for smaller and mid-sized museums interested in self-assessment tools and experiences. Eligibility parameters have also been expanded.

See below information about our adapted and expanded MAP options!

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.

In 2026, AAM will offer three forms of MAP: Basic, Enhanced, and Full Suite.  

MAP Full Suite:

The same full MAP experience that has been offered for the past 45 years, but on a fee-for-service basis without any federal funding subsidy.

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

What’s included: a Workbook, bonus activities, resources, Peer Reviewer, site visit, and final report with prioritized recommendations.

Eligibility: legally organized and operated as a museum, open to the public for at least 50 days a year, and have at least one full-time staff member (or full-time equivalent), whether paid or unpaid. For-profit and federally funded museums are now eligible!

Cost: AAM Members are eligible for a discount on the participation fee! The table shows the cost of participation, based on membership status. This cost includes all of the above benefits, including Peer Reviewer honorarium and travel.

Tier 3/Tier 3 +	$6,750
Tier 2	$7,300
Tier 1	$7,700
Non-Member	$8,100

Optional additional costs:

• Add the Governance Supplement to the Organizational Assessment. This optional add-on includes questions and activities for institutions interested in doing a deeper dive on their governance as part of the Organizational MAP ($500).
• Add a second Peer Reviewer ($2,000)

Coming Summer 2026: MAP Basic and MAP Enhanced

These two new options will offer alternative self-assessment options – still using the established core MAP materials but without a site visit – to support different budgets and readiness levels. Keep your eyes out for more information in the spring – or email us to join the notification list!

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 that covers key components of the MAP process. Note: This recording was made before the elimination of IMLS funding in 2025 that fully subsidized participation, so it states previous information that MAP is no-cost. Please reference the fee structure above for 2026 pricing.

Interested in applying to MAP Full Suite? Our next application deadline is November 14, 2025.

For questions or additional information: Contact the Museum Assessment Program (MAP), or call (202) 289-9118.