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Response 5: Please explain what plans exist to allow this project to become self-sustaining. Include any plans for ticket sales, <br />event sponsors, and other cost-recovery models.* <br />The Kittitas County Historical Museum is a free-admission organization, with most programs and events offered at no cost to the <br />public. This approach encourages attendance and access regardless of household income and has proven effective in <br />generating support through donations and gift shop purchases. <br />The Museum has clear plans to make its programs self-sustaining. Since launching our advertising campaign in 2013, we have <br />tracked return on investment and maintain a dedicated budget for promotion. In 2023, this line increased from $2,500 to $5,000, <br />retained annually to expand awareness, visitation, and engagement. <br />Increased visitation directly supports self-sustainability. Donations totaled $4,190 in 2024, with $4,097 as of August 2025, <br />reflecting strong public engagement. Gift shop sales have grown alongside visitation, offering over 550 items including local and <br />regional history titles, Ellensburg Blue Agate, and souvenirs. Membership dues provide additional program and event support, <br />and targeted contributions fund specific projects or general operations. <br />Several programs include built-in cost-recovery. The Ellensburg Historic Pub Crawl generates approximately $500 net per event, <br />while other ticketed events will follow similar models. Free walking tours and other public programs promote Museum offerings, <br />local businesses, and tourism, increasing overall support and visibility. <br />As awareness grows through advertising, programming, and partnerships, visitation and engagement are expected to continue <br />rising. This creates an upward cycle of support, with an annual return of 25–30%, gradually shifting toward more organic, <br />community-driven sustainability. <br />The Museum itself is already financially stable, supported by donations, memberships, gift shop sales, rental income, and <br />investment properties. By leveraging these income streams, expanding event-based revenue, and maintaining free access, the <br />Museum ensures both public access and long-term program sustainability. <br />2500 character limit <br />Application Questions: Part 4 <br />6| Additional Information