The mission of the Indianapolis Zoo

protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.

The Zoo has been an integral part of the community since it first opened in 1964. It was the first resident in White River State Park, and is the anchor for this cultural district. While the goal of the Zoo has always been focused on providing the highest quality of care to the animals and to further enlighten the community on conservation issues, it also provides economic value and adds to the quality of life for the Central Indiana region. It is the most visited cultural attraction in the city, exceeding attendance of the Pacers and Colts combined, and is ranked as one of the top 10 zoos in the nation through Trip Advisors Best Destinations of 2010.

 

The Zoo serves over one million visitors annually, primarily from Marion and the surrounding counties.

More than 83 percent of visitors come from within the state of Indiana. The membership base of 42,600 member households is one of the highest for cultural institutions in the state. And, it is one of the few zoos in the nation that does not receive direct tax support for operations. With an operating budget of $31 million and a staff of 220 full-time employees, we provide the highest standards of care to 1,400 animal specimens representing 214 species, and the horticulture team nurtures 34,000 plants and 2,806 species of flora.

The Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, meeting the highest standards for zoos and aquariums in the country. It is also accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

 

There are a variety of ways for corporations and businesses to partner with the Indianapolis Zoo that will not only further the mission of the Zoo, but provide the corporation or business with a positive experience that enhances the community in which we live. Below are the ways in which the corporate community can benefit with a partnership with the Indianapolis Zoo.

Contact us for more information about corporate membership and donation opportunities.

Donate

There are several opportunities to contribute to the Indianapolis Zoo’s mission of advancing animal conservation.

By becoming a corporate member of the Indianapolis Zoo, the corporation and its employees enjoy benefits such as membership discounts, complimentary tickets, year-round recognition and invitations to special events. In return, the company’s support provides the Indianapolis Zoo a philanthropic gift that allows us to offer amazing animal experiences and educational opportunities, and to support critical conservation efforts.

Corporate sponsorships are created to assist partners in achieving marketing goals, including increased traffic, sales and brand awareness to specific target audiences – both consumer and business.

The Indianapolis Zoo offers a wide range of sponsorship opportunities of exhibits, attractions and programming. Additionally, the Indianapolis Zoo has opportunities for on-site promotions and sales efforts.

Through global, real-time conservation projects and inspirational education programs, the Zoo strives to save wild things and wild places and change the way visitors view the world around them.

The Indianapolis Zoo also provides ongoing local conservation activities and educational programs. These include activities at the Zoo, as well as K-12 programs that meet Indiana math and science standards (STEM). The Zoo encourages companies to get involved by underwriting these important educational offerings or by providing credible cause-related sponsorships.

The Indianapolis Zoo hosts a variety of special events, either on grounds to provide an enhanced visitor experience for regular Zoo guests, or as special fundraising events for targeted audiences.

Corporate sponsorship opportunities include the option of naming rights and special benefits like complimentary facility rentals, Zoo tickets, membership discounts and even behind-the-scenes tours for employee appreciation, client entertainment and customer cultivation. The Indianapolis Zoo strives to create integrated, multi-departmental packages that help achieve goals throughout our sponsors’ corporations. Some of the many special event sponsorships include Zoobilation, Christmas at the Zoo, Animals and All That Jazz, Elegant Vintage International Wine Auction, the Indianapolis Prize Gala, and ZooBoo.

With certain parameters, companies can rent the entire Zoo and White River Gardens for the evening.

The White River Gardens can also be rented during public hours. Special animal demonstrations and rides as well as a complimentary dolphin demonstration are available. The Zoo or Gardens provide a great venue for meetings, company picnics, or formal affairs, and will help make your event one to remember. All expenditures at the Indianapolis Zoo support our animal conservation mission.