In the past few days, Executive Orders from the Trump administration have put millions of nonprofits at risk of losing critical federal grants. For organizations in the heritage tourism sector—museums, scenic byways, heritage areas, and destination marketing organizations (DMOs)—this presents an urgent challenge. While DMOs are often funded by state governments, their partners may feel the impact more directly.
But if the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that heritage organizations are resilient. During the pandemic, nonprofits feared asking for help, yet communities stepped up. Now, as we face another period of uncertainty, it’s time to take proactive steps. Here’s what your organization can do right now.
1. Be Transparent: Communicate with Your Supporters
Your community wants to support you, but they need to understand what’s at stake. Develop a strategic communications plan that openly discusses your funding situation. Send emails, post updates on social media, and use your website to explain the potential impacts of funding cuts and how supporters can help.
Be specific:
What programs or services are at risk?
What alternative funding sources are you pursuing?
How can individuals, businesses, or local governments step in to support you?
By keeping your audience informed, you build trust and create opportunities for them to take action.
2. Strength in Numbers: Partner with Other Organizations
This is not a time to go it alone. Now more than ever, collaboration is key. Work with:
Other museums, heritage areas, and cultural organizations
Local small businesses
Tourism agencies and DMOs
Libraries, schools, and community groups
By sharing resources, brainstorming solutions, and co-hosting events, you can amplify your impact and reduce costs.
Consider forming regional fundraising coalitions or cross-promoting programs. For example, a museum, Main Street program, and local park could collaborate on a joint event that benefits all three. Additionally, applying for grants or securing corporate sponsorships as a group can amplify impact and increase funding opportunities.
Also look for opportunities to partner with other local nonprofits that may not be heritage- or tourism-based. Social service organizations are also feeling the impact of these executive orders. Heritage museums, in particular, play a vital role in uplifting marginalized communities by sharing their stories and amplifying diverse voices. Perhaps you could host a food drive for the local food bank or offer free admission days for families affected by economic hardship.
Consider reaching out to the local social service agencies in your community to see what they may need—whether it’s space for community gatherings, educational programming, or collaborative advocacy efforts. By working together, you can strengthen the entire community because, as they say, a rising tide lifts all boats.
3. Diversify Revenue Streams
Now is the time to start exploring alternative revenue streams:
New grant opportunities (state, foundation, and corporate grants)
Earned revenue (ticketed virtual events, memberships, merchandise, guided tours)
Individual donations (campaigns emphasizing the urgent need)
Sponsorships & partnerships (aligning with local businesses)
If you haven’t already, consider launching a recurring donation program where supporters commit to giving monthly. Small, consistent contributions can add up quickly.
4. Open Your Doors to Your Community as a Place for Reflection and Respite
In uncertain times, people need places to gather, reflect, and recharge. Trails, parks, and outdoor heritage sites are natural places of solace, but museums and historic sites can also serve this role.
Consider:
Offering free or “pay what you can” admission on certain days
Providing quiet spaces for visitors to journal, reflect, or engage in mindfulness activities
Hosting community discussions on resilience and history
Allowing small groups to gather in your space to discuss action strategies or engage in calming meditations
Being a space of comfort and connection will only deepen your relationship with your community.
5. Leverage State and Local Nonprofit Resources
Many states have nonprofit coalitions or chambers of commerce that can provide guidance, emergency funding options, and advocacy support. Now is the time to reach out and see what resources are available.
Additionally, heritage organizations could reach out to:
Tourism boards and DMOs (for partnership funding opportunities)
State arts and humanities councils
Preservation networks and historical societies
These groups often have access to emergency relief funds, grant writing assistance, and lobbying efforts that could help sustain your organization.
6. Take Care of Yours and Your Team’s Mental Health
Financial instability and uncertainty take a toll—not just on organizations, but on the people who keep them running. It’s crucial to prioritize mental well-being:
Encourage staff and volunteers to take breaks
Be transparent about challenges without creating unnecessary panic
Offer flexible work options when possible
Celebrate small wins to boost morale
A strong, supported team is essential for navigating this storm.
7. Advocate for Your Organization and the Sector
Now is not the time to stay silent. Heritage tourism is a powerful economic driver, creating jobs and boosting local economies. But policymakers and the public need to hear that message.
Ways to advocate:
Contact elected officials about the importance of heritage funding
Participate in statewide and national advocacy efforts
Write op-eds or blog posts about the impact of funding cuts
Encourage your community to voice their support for heritage organizations
Your voice—and the collective voice of the sector—can influence policy decisions.
Final Thoughts: Resilience in Action
Heritage organizations have survived challenges before, and they will again. By taking proactive steps—communicating openly, collaborating with others, diversifying funding, and advocating for support—you can navigate this period of uncertainty.
Most importantly, remember that your work matters. The stories you tell, the spaces you preserve, and the communities you serve are essential. With the right strategies in place, heritage organizations can continue to thrive—now and for generations to come.