August 15, 2019

The Path to Public Funding

In June, ZA posted a blog discussing the nerve-wracking journey of seeking public funding. As a continuation of this important topic, I’ll be facilitating a panel discussion at September’s AZA Annual Conference.

Zoos and aquariums all over the United States are being awarded new and increased public funding by their cities, counties, and states. This support can come in many forms (e.g. bonds, taxes, or levies), is used for multiple purposes (operating or capital), and sometimes comes with strings attached.

Being awarded new or increased public funding can sometimes seem like an insurmountable task, especially in the current political climate. Join us on Wednesday, September 11th from 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. at the AZA Annual Conference for a panel discussion on this topic, where you’ll learn about the different types of support, what their advantages and disadvantages are, and most importantly, how your organization can secure new or increased support. You’ll hear from an expert with specific experience in shepherding conservation organizations through the process, as well as executives from peer AZA facilities who benefit from various funding sources on how they got there.

At the end of the session, you’ll have a clear and concise understanding of the three phases to get your organization across the finish line: (1) research and education; (2) getting on the ballot; and (3) executing your campaign.

Learning Objectives

  1. Understand the various types and sources of public funding options

  2. Identify appropriate preliminary research strategies to engage prior to your campaign

  3. Articulate and plan the steps for winning new public support, from start to finish

We hope to see you there!

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