The museum collaborated with a third-party professional research firm, Kleinhenz & Associates, to study and benchmark the impact of the museum on the local and regional economies. It will help the museum have a deep and thorough understanding of its value to the community.
The museum is known as one of the premier natural history museums in the country, with its collections that draw the public’s attention and exhibits that attract travelers worldwide.
However, based on its annual operations, it only represents a small fraction of economic influence on the community. Meanwhile, its research and collections, natural areas, and educational activities generate substantial social value.
The main goal of the report was to objectively estimate the increase in commercial activity attributed to the operations of the museum using economic modeling tools. A framework was constructed to provide specific and reliable estimates of the museum’s economic impact on specific markets.
This study also tried to estimate the societal benefits of the museum’s nonmarket science activities and provision of education. The study showed that the museum creates 284 jobs and has an annual economic impact and value of $39.5 million through its operations, visitors, education, and science activities in Cuyahoga County.
“We have redoubled our commitment to engage and explore with our community of learners, and to empower them to join us in creating a better tomorrow,” Sonia Winner, the President & CEO of Cleveland Museum of Natural History, commented on the study.
To find out more about the report summary, visit https://spark.adobe.com/page/cHzR6n6JsvNDN/.