Virtual Exhibits Investment Program – Program Guidelines : Annex A

INVESTMENT BY MUSEUMS

Institutions proposing that the VMC invest in their production are expected to demonstrate other investment. There is no fixed minimum for this investment; nor does it need to be direct financial contribution. Investment by museums that is acknowledged as valid includes:

• the value of staff, volunteer or other partner time dedicated to the realization of the project (provided that these costs have not been included in the proposal for investment by the VMC);
• the value of the intellectual property being made available to the public without charge in the on-line project. (Note: this in no way implies transfer of ownership of intellectual property or exclusive use; the value assigned represents the fees that might have been paid had the information elements included in the resources been licensed to the VMC.) Guidance concerning the formula to be used in calculating the value of the investment is provided in Annex B;
• the value of promotion of the project through museum newsletters, brochures or other promotional activities. To be eligible, the promotion must clearly identify the project as part of the VMC. Guidance concerning the formula to be used in calculating the value of the investment is provided in Annex B;
• the value of in-kind contributions (e.g., equipment and services) by external partners;
• direct financial investment in the project by the museum or other partners/sources.

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