Finances of the Museums
The state-subsidised museums are primarily funded by local authorities. Many museums also receive grants from foundations.
Around 1/5 of the state-subsidised museums are owned by one or several local authorities, 3/4 are independent institutions, and less than 1/10 are owned by an association whose objective is to run the museum.
The state grants annual funding to the state-subsidised museums is equivalent to approx. 31% of the funding from local authorities and foundations. However, there is a cap on the state subsidies available to each museum.
Extra funding
20 state-subsidised museums receive extra funding from the state because they have special research and/or dissemination activities. Some of these museums also handle tasks at national level.
The Heritage Agency administers various funds to which both state-owned and state-subsidised museums can apply annually for support for research projects, study trips, purchases, publication of books, etc.
The Educational Plan
One of these funds, The Educational Plan, supports projects that strengthens the museums' educational role.
Download guidelines for applications to The Educational Plan.
Since 2006 it has been a statutory requirement that state-subsidised museums grant free access to children and teenagers under the age of 18.
All visitors are granted free access to The National Museum and to the permanent collections of the National Gallery of Denmark.
The state reimburses the museums for the shortfall in entrance fees.