Ontario Museum Association

The Ontario Museum Association (OMA) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing a vibrant, collaborative, and inclusive museum sector within the province of Ontario. Established with the mission to strengthen the capacity of museums and professionals active in Ontario's museum community, the OMA plays a pivotal role in promoting excellence, facilitating best practices, and fostering communication and cooperation among its members.

Mission and Vision

The Ontario Museum Association’s mission centers on being the leading professional organization that advocates for the vital role of museums as key contributors to community life and the well-being of Ontarians. It supports institutions and individuals by offering resources, professional development, and advocacy to ensure a strong and sustainable museum sector.

Its vision emphasizes capacity-building within the museum community, encouraging excellence, and enhancing collaboration and communication across the sector. The Association actively collaborates with various stakeholders, related industries, and professional bodies to advocate the importance of museums in society.

Activities and Initiatives

OMA organizes events such as annual conferences and symposia, including those focused on Indigenous collections and partnerships, aimed at connecting museum professionals across Ontario. It has taken leadership roles in developing workshops like mount-making training in partnership with national institutes and nurtures regional museum networks to strengthen inter-institutional collaboration.

Advocacy is a significant aspect of OMA's work. The Association regularly conducts sector-wide surveys, such as COVID-19 impact assessments, to understand and respond to the evolving needs of museums. It also engages in dialogue with political representatives and cultural critics to influence policy and funding for museums.

Role in the Community

The Ontario Museum Association serves as an essential bridge between museums and the public, highlighting the cultural, educational, and economic contributions of museums to their communities. Through its efforts to promote best practices and strategic planning, the OMA enhances the role of museums in preserving Ontario’s heritage and fostering community development.

Business Registration Number: 107798522RR0001
Website: members.museumsonario.ca

The Ontario Museum Association continues to be a cornerstone institution supporting the growth and sustainability of the museum sector in Ontario. Its commitment to inclusivity, professional development, and advocacy ensures that museums remain vital cultural resources within the province.

[References: 2][5]

[1] https://www.ontariomuseum.org [2] https://museumsontario.ca/about/ [3] https://www.ontariomuseum.org/history/ [4] https://www.ontariomuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2020/07/40th-Anniversary-Book-D6.pdf [5] https://museumsontario.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/OMA_Annual-Report_2019-2020.pdf