Organizer Information
The CIMAM (International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art) is a leading international network affiliated with ICOM (International Council of Museums), dedicated to advancing best practices and knowledge exchange in modern and contemporary art museums. Since its establishment, CIMAM has played a critical role in fostering global dialogue among museum directors, curators, and researchers.
The CIMAM Travel Grant Program, launched in 2005 with major support from the Getty Foundation, has enabled over 400 professionals from emerging and developing economies to participate in its annual conferences. The program aims to increase global representation, facilitate professional development, and strengthen international collaboration across museum sectors.
For 2026, CIMAM will host its 58th Annual Conference in Harare, Zimbabwe—marking the organization’s first conference on the African continent, a milestone reflecting its commitment to geographic inclusivity and cultural diversity.
Title & Description
CIMAM Travel Grant 2026 – Attend the 58th Annual Conference in Harare
CIMAM invites museum professionals, curators, and researchers to apply for its prestigious Travel Grant Program, supporting attendance at the 2026 Annual Conference titled:
“Museums Beyond Limits: Imagining Repair Across Cultures, Ecologies and Knowledges.”
The conference will take place from November 20–22, 2026, in Harare, Zimbabwe, and will explore how museums can act as agents of repair—social, ecological, and epistemological—across diverse global contexts.
This grant provides a unique opportunity for professionals from underrepresented regions to engage with international peers, participate in critical discourse, and expand their professional networks within a global museum ecosystem.
Categories
- Curatorial Practice
- Museum Studies
- Contemporary Art
- Cultural Management
- Art Research
- Art Theory
Eligibility
- Open to international applicants residing in countries classified under Groups C, D, and E (emerging and developing economies according to ICOM standards).
- Eligible profiles include:
- Museum directors and curators (modern and contemporary art)
- Independent curators
- Researchers specializing in contemporary art, museum studies, or collections
- Applicants must:
- Be professionally active in the museum sector
- Not engaged in commercial art dealing or for-profit gallery activities
- Priority is given to:
- Junior professionals (less than 10 years of experience)
- Previous recipients of a CIMAM Travel Grant may reapply only after 3 years
- Eligibility is based on country of residence, not nationality
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected participants will receive a fully funded travel grant, including:
- Full access to the 3-day CIMAM Annual Conference
- Round-trip travel (economy class flight or equivalent)
- Four nights of accommodation
- Conference registration (including meals, sessions, and organized visits)
- Transportation for official conference activities
- CIMAM Membership (2026–2028)
Additional benefits:
- High-level international networking opportunities
- Participation in global discussions and breakout sessions
- Visibility within a leading professional museum network
Extended Program (for Getty-supported participants):
- Early arrival (one day before the conference)
- Additional accommodation night
- Extra meals and per diem support
- Guided visits and informal networking sessions
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Short bio or résumé (not a full CV)
- Motivation statement
- List of exhibitions and publications (last 5 years)
- Two recommendation letters (or referee contacts for current CIMAM members)
Additional requirements:
- Applicants must ensure they meet visa and travel eligibility conditions
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 May 2026
- Evaluation Period: 4 – 28 May 2026
- Notification of Results: 8 – 12 June 2026
- Travel Arrangements: 15 June – 15 July 2026
- Conference Dates: 20 – 22 November 2026
- Final Report Submission: 6 December 2026
Location
Harare, Zimbabwe
Additional Details
- Grants are awarded based on:
- Financial need
- Professional relevance
- Potential impact on the applicant’s career
- Expenses such as visa fees, insurance, and airport transfers are not covered
- Selected participants are expected to:
- Submit a post-conference report
- Actively engage during the conference
- Contribute to CIMAM’s global network as ambassadors
CIMAM ensures a non-discriminatory selection process, promoting equal opportunity regardless of gender, race, religion, or background.