The Association of Independent Museums' (AIM) toolkit Economic Value of the Independent Museum Sector is now available to download.  It enables you to calculate the value of your own museum in your own local area, providing a useful advocacy tool and enabling you to make your case to economic, political and tourism stakeholders. Useful indeed in these times of cuts.

The toolkit was devised following the association’s research into the Economic Value of Independent Museums.  First presented at the 2010 AIM Conference, this found that the independent sector is worth nearly £500 million.  The full report, researched by DC Research and supported by the Museums, Libraries & Archives Council, is available to read, along with an executive summary, and most importantly, the toolkit – go to http://www.aim-museums.co.uk/pages/pg-18-aim-economic-impact-paper/.

The toolkit has three levels, tourism impacts, employment impacts and impacts of spend on goods and services.   AIM Bulletin plans to publish the findings of some of its members who have made use of the toolkit. 

AIM (the Association of Independent Museums) is the national UK body connecting, supporting and representing independent museums. Susan Eddisford MDO for East Devon is AIM's representative at SW Fed Board meetings.

Founded in 1977 in response to the growing number of community-based projects seeking to preserve locally and nationally-important heritage, AIM has grown to become a respected sector group, consulted on national policy and providing a thriving network for members.  In addition, it organises an annual conference, administers 2 grant schemes, publishes focus papers and the bi-monthly Bulletin as well as an e-news service.

To find out more go to www.aim-museums.co.uk