Call for applications: Our Collections Matter Field Projects 2026

How it works 

If selected, you will join a dynamic international cohort and take part in bi-monthly online workshops throughout 2026 to learn more about sustainable development, Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

You will take a fresh look at how your organization contributes to sustainable development and identify new opportunities to deepen that impact. With our support, you will set clear, achievable goals and select practical tools – drawn from the heritage sector and beyond – to help you reach them. Your learning will culminate in the design and delivery of your own Our Collections Matter (OCM) Field Project, creating real-world impact for your community and future generations. 

Between workshops, you will put ideas into action. Using the Our Collections Matter Self-assessment Tool, the Our Collections Matter Toolkit, and a set of tailored planning and evaluationresources, you will shape a project that reflects your priorities and your local context. As the programme unfolds, you’ll connect with peers from around the world, exchanging insights, challenges, and successes. By the end, you won’t just have completed a project – you’ll be part of a growing global community driving positive change through collections. 

Up to 30 diverse collections-based organizations will be selected to participate. The workshops will be conducted in English, with discussion time to help you learn from each another. 

Upon successful completion, your organization will receive a certificate of achievement, and your OCM Field Project will be featured on ICCROM's website as a source of inspiration for institutions worldwide, encouraging contributions to sustainable development through collections-based work. 

Selected organizations will not be required to pay any fee.  

We will deliver the workshops, which are highly participatory and interactive, on ZOOM. Before applying, please consider if you have access to a stable internet connection, a suitable device to connect and participate, and the availability to attend all live meetings online. Given the different time zones, we will make sure to select the best possible meeting times to facilitate everyone's participation. 

Eligibility 

This opportunity is open to anyone working in a collections-based organization of any size, including museums, libraries and archives. 

No prior knowledge of sustainable development is necessary, but you should be committed to directing your work and the activities of your organization towards creating a better future for everyone. That includes upholding the principles of Agenda 2030 and the SDGs, with their focus on people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership. We still have 5 years to strengthen the contribution of the heritage sector to deliver the SDGs. The clock is ticking. 

How to apply 

Please fill out the application form.   

If you have any questions, please write to collectionsmatter@iccrom.org.  

The deadline to apply is 27 March 2026. 

What participation involves 

Expectations 

‘I´m so glad and thankful to have had the opportunity of being part of this experience. I learned a lot not only about SDGs, but also about other possibilities we have in museums through our collections.’ — María de los Ángeles Hernández Cardona, Conservator-restorer, Museo de El Carmen, Mexico  

‘The OCM Field Projects programme was an enjoyable experience where I gained valuable learning experience from the real-world experiences of the other participants. Not only did it make me grow professionally, but it also widened my perspective and made me realize that  even though we have our differences in terms of operation, we also share similar challenges in managing our collections. Moreover, sustainability is a big issue in collections management, and should be given focus by museum workers, and other institutions that maintaincollections.’ — Marvin M. Belgica, Museum Curator, National Museum of the Philippines