IDEAL Internships focus on inclusivity, diversity, equity, access, and leadership. The Decorative Arts Trust recognizes the homogeneity of the museum field and strives to improve access to curatorial careers for students of color as a path toward achieving systemic change. The Trust will help build a more inclusive future by creating opportunities for students of color through new collaborations that promote a shift in the narratives and voices found in the museum field.
Application Process and Deadline
To apply for an IDEAL Internship Initiative Grant, please submit a proposal by August 31 to thetrust@decorativeartstrust.org. Requests for additional information can also be submitted to this email address. The Trust is offering grants for up to $5,000 to museums and historic sites in support of internships that improve and promote inclusivity, diversity, equity, access, and leadership in the museum field by creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. The Trust seeks to fund summer and academic-year internships, ideally for disadvantaged high school and undergraduate students. Internships should focus on the decorative arts and object-based research, exhibitions, installations, and educational programs. There is an opportunity for a second year of funding if the grantee institution can demonstrate sufficient impact. Proposals should address the following questions and not exceed four pages:
Provide the names and titles of lead employees participating in the internship or providing mentorship. How diverse is your institution’s professional and management staff currently? Does your institution have a diversity officer on staff?
How will the internship be marketed? Is the internship geared toward an intended audience (educational level, academic program, school affiliation, etc.)?
What is the timing and duration of the internship? How many hours will be devoted to the internship? How are the grant funds to be allocated (salary, transportation, equipment, housing, etc.)? Are you requesting a full $5,000 grant? Will grant funds be allocated for any purposes other than the benefit of the intern (salary, transportation, housing, etc.)? The expected hourly rate for IDEAL interns is $15/hour.
Describe in detail the proposed object-based research, exhibition, installation, or education program tied to the internship and its capstone project. What outcomes are expected of the internship (professional development, networking, public outreach, etc.)? How will the institution evaluate the impact of the internship? What opportunities are available for professional development and public outreach, such as tours, presentations, virtual programs, and writing? How will the intern benefit from the experience? Please provide specific information about the expectations, focus, structure, and activities intended for the internship.
How will the institution evaluate the impact of the internship?
What is the institution’s current investment in inclusivity and equity internships? How does your proposal for an IDEAL internship differ from or improve upon other initiatives at your institution?
How will this internship foster a conversation of equity and inclusivity within your organization?
What interests you most about this internship opportunity, and how will it transform your institution?
Is there any additional pertinent information you wish to add?
Applications will be reviewed by the members of the Trust’s Inclusion & Diversity Committee of the Board of Governors, which will announce selections by October 31.
