AIM National Conference 2026

Host venue sponsor: Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens, and Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, Co Durham.

What defines a truly successful museum? This perennial question lies at the heart of this year’s conference. Drawing on groundbreaking new research into the sector’s most effective business models, we will unpack the essential strategies and practical steps your institution needs to succeed.

This year promises a dynamic mix of inspiration, practical advice, and sector-wide collaboration. Two days of learning, networking, and sharing strategies that will act as a catalyst for change.

AIM Conference is for anyone working in the heritage sector and we welcome colleagues from all career stages and from all types and size of heritage organisations from right across the UK, not just independents.

If you’ve been before you’ll know that AIM Conference is renowned for being approachable and practical, often highlighted as one of the most welcoming and friendly in the sector. The packed and exciting programme is designed to inspire fresh ideas that you can apply to your own organisation. Conference also offers plenty of networking opportunities, a supplier expo, and social events for connecting with colleagues, familiar and new.

If you're not sure if you're an AIM member and therefore eligible for the membership ticket rates, then you can check the membership list here: Nov-2025-Membership-for-Mapping-.pdf

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Host or Publisher Association of Independent Museums