Are zoos and aquaria perceived by the outside world as sufficiently different to one another? If not, do we lose out of area visitors and funding potential, because we are seen as having little to offer that is part of the particular authentic ‘flavour’ of that part of the world? The fact is, from within [...]
John Regan Associates Blog
Zoos and regional/local identity
July 13th, 2007Some general principles for zoos looking for funding from the EU
July 10th, 2007Get to understand the basic policies, principles and ethos of the EU first, rather than immediately plunge in with your funding need. If possible try to participate in policy making at the ground floor Your best opportunity may not lie in the most obvious area. Thus zoos should not only look to DG Environment, but [...]
Zoos’ role with the world of culture…?
July 8th, 2007Do zoos around the world get sufficient acknowledgement for their place within that incredibly difficult to define expresssion, culture..? Do we ourselves think of our own organisations often enough in this way? I was very interested in a recent conversation with Harry Schram ( Executive Director of European Association of Zoos and Aquaria- EAZA) discussing an old [...]
Zoo fundraising: some principles for successful grant writing
July 8th, 2007Grant making trusts and foundations exist (in the USA and UK at least- there are different models in other nations) purely to donate funds to appropriate causes. They are perhaps underrated compared to commercial sponsorship as a funding source. Here are a few starter do’s and don’ts: First ask all of your relevant contacts if [...]
Why is a zoo not a museum?
July 3rd, 2007The boundary between our two types of institution seems very porous. However, in certain contexts at least, the museum seems to be a much more socially palatable concept than the zoo. Museums are seen as inarguably a ‘good thing’, deserving of public and political support, and somehow part of a generally improving, ‘civilising’ process. There is [...]
What makes a good zoo trustee or member of a governing body..?
July 2nd, 2007I shall probably get into trouble for this, but I know many agree that not enough thought goes into the recruiting of trustees or non-executive directors for zoos and similar organisations. This is a very serious role to take on. In the UK at least trustees (Council members) are ultimately responsible for the financial wellbeing, [...]
