The Smithsonian has launched a two-year, $2.5 billion fundraising campaign – the largest in the institution’s history.
The $2.5bn goal would also be the largest amount to be raised in a fundraising campaign by a cultural organisation.
The campaign will finish in 2026 to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“Through this campaign we have the opportunity, together, to contemplate our rich, complex history as we aspire to live up to our founding ideals,” said Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch.
“The visionary Americans who support the Smithsonian at this historic moment will pave the way for a brave new future ahead.”
Board chair Risa Lavizzo-Mourey added: “The Smithsonian has something for everyone and the potential to touch all Americans in a meaningful way. This campaign gives us the opportunity to speak to our shared future.”
All Smithsonian museums are taking part in the campaign “to support specific priorities”, says a press release. The campaign will also raise funds for several goals across the institution. These include:
Smithsonian campaign goals
- Attracting the highest caliber of leaders for the Smithsonian to unlock “the full potential of its collections and staff”.
- Ensuring that all Smithsonian internships are paid to “level the playing field for interns of all backgrounds”.
- Expanding the institution’s digital reach, including a new experience called ‘My Smithsonian’.
- Investing in sustainability initiatives, like advancing research and digitising scientific collections.
- Marking America’s 250th anniversary with celebrations on the National Mall in 2026, and across the Smithsonian’s venues.
During the quiet phase of the campaign, donors including Bank of America and Jeff Bezos have contributed.
Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, overseeing 21 museums, education centres, research facilities, cultural centres, libraries and a zoo.
Two new museums – the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum – are in the early planning stages.
The Smithsonian has more than 6,200 employees and 3,800 volunteers. In 2023, it welcomed more than 18 million visitors. The total number of objects, artworks and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at more than 157 million.
Images courtesy of the Smithsonian
