(Batesville, IN) – Kids Discovery Factory (KDF) in Batesville has been awarded a $24,432 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to support the development and implementation of a new museum membership program.
The funding will allow KDF to research, design, and launch a comprehensive membership model tailored to families of all sizes.
As part of the project, KDF will investigate best practices from children’s museums nationwide, explore reciprocity programs that provide reduced admission to partner museums, and purchase the software and technology necessary to manage memberships.
“This grant allows us to thoughtfully build a membership program that strengthens relationships with families and ensures long-term sustainability for the museum,” said Emili Uden, Executive Director of Kids Discovery Factory. “Memberships will not only provide meaningful benefits for families but will also help fuel our mission of hands-on learning and exploration for children
across Southeastern Indiana.”
The new membership program may include benefits such as member-only hours, discounts on birthday party rentals, and potential participation in museum reciprocity programs, allowing KDF
members to visit other museums at reduced admission rates.
Community input is an important part of the process. KDF is encouraging families and community members to share their thoughts on membership options by completing a short survey available at the top of the museum’s website (www.visitkdf.org).
This project was made possible in part by the IMLS FY2025 Inspire! Grants for Small Museums Award.
IMLS is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. Its mission is to advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.
KDF is expanding its footprint in downtown Batesville. Its three-story, 10,000 square foot museum and hands-on learning center is expected to reopen later this year.
