Together We Thrive
We are the Minnesota Zoo Foundation — a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides critical funding and resources that support the Zoo’s initiatives and expand its impact. Join us in building a future where humans and the natural world thrive together — at the Zoo and beyond.
Supporting and Scaling Important Zoo Initiatives
Funding and resources from the Minnesota Zoo Foundation help the Zoo achieve its mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. We count on donors to help make this work possible.
Connecting With Nature
Immersive nature experiences and innovative environmental education programs.
Breaking Barriers
Programs that reduce barriers to visiting and increase access to all the Zoo has to offer.
Protecting Wildlife
Industry-leading conservation work in Minnesota and across the globe.
Ensuring Excellence
Raising the bar in animal care, Zoo operations, exhibits, and professional training.
Ways To Give
We believe that everyone can play a role in supporting the mission of the Minnesota Zoo. So, we created many ways to donate, where every contribution makes an impact.
One-Time Gift
Join us in supporting the Minnesota Zoo’s mission. Any amount makes a difference.
Monthly Giving
Help provide the Zoo with a reliable, steady source of support with recurring donations.
Planned Giving
Include the Minnesota Zoo Foundation in your estate plan and let your love of the Zoo live on.
Employer Matching
Double your donation's impact – at no additional cost to you – through your employer match programs.
Animal Sponsorship
Honor a favorite animal and support wildlife conservation both in Minnesota and around the world.
Giving Communities
We rely on gifts of all types and sizes to support the Minnesota Zoo. By joining one of our Giving Communities, you play an important role in expanding and accelerating the Zoo's impact.
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Friends of the Minnesota Zoo
$300 - $1,199
Support the Zoo we love while earning donor benefits like event invites and a donor membership. -
Director's Circle
$1,200 - $9,999
Create a significant impact and access special Director’s Circle benefits and activities. -
President's Club
$10,000+
Invest in the Zoo and advance its growth while receiving exclusive President’s Club benefits. -
Circle of Life Society
Help the Zoo thrive for generations when you include the Minnesota Zoo Foundation in your estate planning and earn a place in our Circle of Life Society.
Donor Benefits
The best part about being a Minnesota Zoo Foundation donor: you'll see firsthand your impact today, while making an investment in the Zoo’s tomorrow. You’ll also receive a variety of unique benefits and insider experiences for helping us further the Zoo’s mission.
| $50 | $100 | $300+ (Friends) | $1,200+ (Director’s Circle) | $3,000+ (Director’s Circle) | $6,000+ (Director’s Circle) | $10,000+ (President’s Club) | Circle of Life Society | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donor newsletter | ||||||||
| Invites to donor appreciation day | ||||||||
| Donor Membership to the Zoo* | ||||||||
| Invites to insider events and experiences | ||||||||
| Annual Impact Report and Donor Wall recognition | ||||||||
| Dedicated parking spot (first come, first served) | ||||||||
| Friends membership to give away* | ||||||||
| Behind-the-scenes experience | ||||||||
| Invites to President's Club events and experiences |
*Donor membership includes Zoo admission for two adults living at the same address, any children and/or grandchildren ages 21 and under, and allows the membership holder to bring two complimentary guests with each visit. Event invitations are sent via email. Please email us at donations@mnzoo.org to ensure we have your preferred email on file.
Donor Resources
Interested in making an impact? We answer questions and make it easy for you to give with these handy resources.
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Donor Benefits & FAQ’s
Find answers to common inquiries you may have about making a contribution to the Zoo.
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Planned Giving
Access free resources to help you with important estate planning decisions.
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Donor Advised Funds
Learn about making a gift through your DAF to help support the Minnesota Zoo’s mission.
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Corporate Sponsorship
Drive brand awareness and engage potential customers by sponsoring an event or experience.
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Stock or Mutual Fund Transfer
Find forms and information that help you explore donating stocks or mutual funds to support the Zoo.
Impact Stories
Taking Animal Care to a New Level
The Minnesota Zoo’s expert Animal Health and Care Teams provide excellent medical care to its animals, including when a tiger cub had a medical scare.