Publicising your project
A great way of raising awareness of the project you plan to undertake and the fact that you have successfully bid for funding from MGS is via press and media. Publicising your grant is also a great way to raise local and national awareness of your organisation. We’ve created some helpful advice on what you should do when announcing your grant and how best to go about it. We are also on hand if you would like any further advice.
When publicising your project you must acknowledge MGS’s support by including our logo on all publicity and marketing materials relating to the project. Logos should be requested from our marketing team. When producing materials that feature the MGS logo, visuals should be sent for approval to marketing@museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk. We will endeavour to respond within 7 days of receipt.
When to announce your grant
Once you have received your award letter from us you are free to consider how you publicise it. If there are any date restrictions on announcing your grant, the letter will inform you of these. We will publicise the awards through our own communication channels, which might also include a press release, and for this we may ask you for a quote and an image, but we still encourage you to contact your own local press.
Acknowledging MGS’s support
You must acknowledge MGS’s support for your project by including the MGS logo on all publicity and marketing materials relating to the project. You can request logos in an appropriate format by contacting marketing@museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk. Please send us a copy of any material that features our logo to approve before you release it, using the same email address above. We will respond as soon as possible, but please send it to us in good time and allow 7 days for a response.
Writing and sending a press release
One of the most effective ways to publicise your grant is to prepare a press release with information about your award and what your project will involve.
Our PR guide has helpful tips for writing a press release, as well as using other forms of media.
It’s important to communicate the anticipated impact on the community or tangible outcomes of the project. Think about who will read the article and help to explain the benefits of the project in a way that will interest them.
Please send us a copy of your press release for approval prior to sending to press. We can also provide a supporting quote but please allow five working days’ notice.
To find the appropriate press contact for your local newspapers, magazines and radio station call their main number and ask to speak to the news desk; it’s the first step to building a valuable relationship. We’re also more than happy to give you some guidance on press contacts, if required.
Newspapers and websites welcome interesting and eye-catching photos, especially if they include people in them. If your project offers a strong visual opportunity then invite your local press photographers, organise your own photographer, or follow our top tips for taking amazing photographs for social media. We encourage you to share any strong imagery with us.
Project endorsement and local support
Sharing details of your project, with your local politicians, local dignitaries or MSPs is a great way of ensuring that your organisation is on their radar. You could offer them the opportunity to endorse your project through a quote in your press release or to take part in your photocall.
Communicating your project milestones
As your project progresses, let the media know when you have a milestone coming up – openings and finales make a good story. Remember to acknowledge the MGS support and invite us to relevant events or exhibitions – we would love to be there to help you celebrate your achievement if possible.
If your organisation uses social media platforms these can be effective tools to raise awareness of your project, and to acknowledge your grant. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @MuseumsGalScot or on LinkedIn @Museums Galleries Scotland and mention us in posts.