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Public and Private Support, Fiscal Year 2000

The National Museum of American History had a total operating budget of $31,397,000 for the year ending September 30, 2000. Sixty-two percent (62%) of the operating budget comes as part of the Smithsonian's federal appropriation from Congress and as seed money—special one-time congressional allotments for major projects such as the Star-Spangled Banner Preservation Project and America on the Move, a major upgrade of the Museum's transportation wing. Over the last fifteen years the federal portion of the Museum's budget has consistently decreased, and all signs point to a continued downward trend. In fact, even though the Museum's total operating budget decreased in 2000, the number of visitors grew by 15%—an unprecedented year-over-year increase—further stretching our limited resources.

Thirty-eight percent (38%) of the Museum's operating budget comes from private sources, and reliance on private support at the Smithsonian continues to grow. Once a resource of funds for temporary or special projects, private sector support is a critical and growing component of the Museum's operating budget. Support from the private sector—individuals, foundations, and corporations—fill in the funding gaps for core Museum functions and provide the majority support for major exhibitions, public programs, and educational outreach activities. The Museum's Capital Campaign has made enormous progress in securing private funds for the immediate needs. Its expanded goal of $200 million will address capital needs, programmatic initiatives, and outreach activities.