Our research

We regularly commission research to help our members and the wider sector remain innovative and inspiring. From driving emotional engagement to evaluating economic impact, our work provides the actionable insights that help drive the sector forward.

Current research

These are the research projects recently commissioned by AIM, or currently underway.

Exploring the role and impact of small museums in places

Research underway in 2026 exploring the role of small to medium museums in places.

Fragile to flourishing: museum operating models

Fragile to Flourishing: Museum operating models in an uncertain world

Read our most recent research findings

Land and outdoor spaces management

The report includes a number of case studies from AIM members as well as a toolkit that allows museums and heritage organisations to start putting the recommendations into practice in their own land management strategies.

Museums: The creative industries' untapped resource

Museums should be recognised as collaborators in innovation, skills development, and industrial strategy.

Economic impact of independent museum sector

The 2024 edition of AIM's Economic Impact of the Independent Museum Sector Report and Toolkit, offering crucial insights into the sector’s economic contribution post-pandemic and amid recent financial challenges.  

Admissions pricing policy and its impact

Research into admissions pricing policy in museums and its impact.

Pleasure, connection, purpose

How museums can leverage emotions to build greater public support.

Findings from older research

AIM Sector Survey Sept 2023

In September 2023 AIM conducted a survey on how the sector is managing in the midst of challenges.

Seeking certainty – AIM survey September 2022

In September 2022, after two years of pandemic measures, and during a dual energy crisis with wider cost-of living pressures in force across the national economy, AIM went out to members with a snap survey on recent performance, current challenges, and the need for support.

AIM Covid impact survey report Jan 2022

Balancing optimism and realism – AIM Covid impact survey report January 2022

Don’t miss a thing!

Sign up to our weekly email for the latest news from AIM, including events, training, grants and resources.

* indicates required

You can change your preferences or opt out of hearing from us at any time using the unsubscribe link in our emails. Read our full privacy notice.

Join AIM: We support and provide practical help to independent museums

Be part of a thriving community

Grow your network, attend events, learn from like-minded people and share your knowledge with our community.

Save money and get funding

Apply for AIM member grants, get discounts, special offers, promotions etc.

Get additional support from experts

Our team of consultants and mentors can help you.
Become a member From as little as £73 a year

Already a member? Make the most of your benefits.