AIM, or the Association of Independent Museums, was established in 1977 to address the needs of the growing independent museum sector in the UK. As a registered charity and limited company, AIM aims to provide a network of mutual help and support for hundreds of organizations, sharing good practice and creating a singular voice. AIM represents the UK's independent museums, which account for more than half of the country's museum sector.

These museums cover a wide range of subjects, ranging from major civic museums to small museums focused on local and community history. AIM believes in delivering public benefit and upholding the behaviors and good practice highlighted in the AIM Hallmarks of Prospering Museums. Membership is open to any museum or heritage site, regardless of whether they are independently run.

By joining AIM, museums and heritage sites can gain access to support, discounts, grants, events, and more