Resource has announced the launch of a £2 million Museum Development Fund. Aimed at assisting the English Regional Agencies (RAs) in providing support for small and medium-sized local and community museums and galleries, the funding is thought to be a major boost for museums in each of the nine English regions. It is hoped that the money will allow England's museums and galleries to build stronger relationships with RAs and Regional Museum Hubs, and contribute to the gradual modernisation of regional museums. Stuart Davies, the Director of Strategy and Planning at Resource, commented that the funding would be of most use to those institutions which were already engaged in modernisation strategies. 'Grants will be awarded to projects that demonstrate a commitment to new or materially expanded museum development activities,' he said. 'These may include learning programs, outreach services and exhibitions that contribute to developing new audiences, particularly children and local communities.' The £2 million will be allocated over four years, and divided in accordance with the number of registered museums in each region. Proposals are invited from each of the nine regions and should include an outline or a four-year program of activity. Grants awards will be announced at the beginning of March.