PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) announced today it is implementing a number of different strategies to handle the economic impacts wrought by the current COVID-19 pandemic including temporary layoffs, pay cuts, and significant cuts to non-staff operating expenses. The museum is doing this to ensure financial stability and the ability to restore operations to the extent possible as soon as it is safe to do so.

As a private, non-profit organization, OMSI does not receive any government funding, but relies on earned and contributed revenue for its operating expenses. The organization’s primary revenue streams – museum admissions, education and program fees, memberships, and facility rentals – have all been canceled during its busiest time of the year. The annual OMSI Gala, the largest fundraising event of the year, is shifting to a virtual experience.

“This is an unprecedented time for OMSI, our community and the rest of the world, and we have had to make some very tough decisions. Today we informed over half of our valued staff members that they are included in a significant number of temporary layoffs,” said Nancy Stueber, president of OMSI. “We are committed to paying the employer portion of their healthcare insurance for a period of time, and our goal is to bring them back to work as soon as possible. This is a difficult situation and it has been a very painful experience for all of us. We wish everyone health and safety in the weeks ahead and look forward to re-opening our doors to the community.”

OMSI is still working hard to deliver on its mission to support the community, thinking not simply about how it can survive this crisis, but about how to help Oregon when the community recovers. OMSI will retain a small team to create meaningful digital STEAM programming to support learning at home and is also collaborating with Multnomah County and the State of Oregon to provide high-quality, school-aged care for essential workers during this troubling situation.

The importance of science-based decision making is greater than ever. OMSI seeks to foster the exchange of ideas, and help the community make smart, informed choices, but it needs the community's support to continue this vital work. To learn more about how to support OMSI, go to www.omsi.edu/donate.

Administrative staff and customer service are accessible by email (info@omsi.edu) and phone (503.797.4000). For more information please visit www.omsi.edu/covid-19.

About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI operates the largest museum-based outdoor science education program in the country and provides traveling and community outreach programs that bring science learning opportunities to schools and community organizations in every county in Oregon and throughout the region. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu.