Since the COVID-19 pandemic forced museums, zoos, and cultural attractions to close their doors, many have admirably turned their attention to new digital content projects, virtual public programs, and online events to help keep audiences engaged. Now, after two months of closures, many organizations are also beginning to monetize these digital initiatives through entrance fees, “pay what you wish” models, and other methods. Even as organizations open their doors (or plan to open their doors) to visitors once again, many are finding that the reduced capacity and restrictions on physical events and summer camps are placing greater importance on generating revenue through digital engagement initiatives.
On May 13, 2020, over 3,300 museum professionals joined Brendan Ciecko (CEO and Founder @ Cuseum), Michelle Mileham (Director of Education @ Tracy Aviary), Christian Ramirez (Public Programs Manager @ Phoenix Art Museum) & Laura Houston (Director of Education @ Elmwood Park Zoo) as they explored various ways to monetize virtual programming and digital offerings. This webinar explored ways to monetize traditional programming that has been shifted to digital platforms, as well as creative ideas that have generated new revenue streams. This discussion also addressed some of the challenges related to reopening that cultural organizations are continuing to face.
Watch the video recording here.
Read the full transcript below:
