With the 2026 Heritage Fund grant cycle now open, we’re featuring a FY25 project that proves even a modest grant can spark statewide impact.
In 2025, the Maryland Museums Association (MMA) received a $5,000 Heritage Fund grant to launch an ambitious and much-needed initiative: the Maryland Museum Economic Impact Report.
Maryland is home to more than 450 museums, from small volunteer-run historical societies to major cultural institutions. Together, they preserve our shared heritage, provide hands-on learning experiences, and anchor community identity. Yet, until now, there has been no comprehensive, statewide dataset capturing just how much museums contribute to Maryland’s economy, education system, workforce, and tourism industry.
With support from the Heritage Fund, MMA is working to change that.
The project will produce a comprehensive economic and educational impact analysis of museums across the state, creating reliable, current data that demonstrates the vital role museums play in the well-being of Marylanders and the strength of our communities.
A Statewide Effort
To ensure the report reflects the diversity and scope of Maryland’s museum community, MMA has partnered with Parker Strategy Group to conduct a professional economic impact study.
The effort includes:
- A standardized statewide survey of museums to gather visitor, operational, and community impact data
- Regional public meetings to hear directly from museum professionals and stakeholders
- A final public report and presentation to be released in Spring 2026
The survey is designed to be accessible and manageable, with most organizations able to complete it in just 10–15 minutes. Museums are encouraged to provide best estimates if exact figures are not readily available, and support is available to help respondents navigate any questions.
Join the Conversation: Public Meetings
As part of the process, MMA is hosting a series of 1.5-hour public meetings across the state. Each session includes a presentation from Parker Strategy Group on existing data and early findings, followed by a facilitated discussion about the needs and impacts of Maryland’s museums.
All are welcome to attend.
Upcoming meetings include:
Sotterley Plantation – Interpretive Center
Hollywood, MD
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 2:00–3:30 PM
Central Library – Poe Room
Baltimore, MD
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 2:15–3:45 PM
The Delaplaine Arts Center
Frederick, MD
Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 10:00–11:30 AM
(An additional in-person meeting in Dorchester County is being scheduled.)
This project is a powerful example of how Heritage Fund grants help organizations do more than preserve history — they help make the case for why history matters today. By quantifying the economic and educational value of museums, the Maryland Museums Association is equipping the entire field with data to support advocacy, funding, tourism development, and long-term sustainability. It’s a reminder that heritage work doesn’t just tell stories about the past, it shapes the future of our communities.