Lower attendance and budget gap prompt more cuts at the Science Museum

Lower attendance and budget gap prompt more cuts at the Science Museum Sabrina Salguero Del Cid KSTP (KSTP/file) The Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) announced Thursday it is eliminating jobs and cutting expenses as it works to close a $4.64 million budget gap. The museum cited lower attendance and declining revenue for the cuts. It said it eliminated or changed 22 positions, and 10 others remain unfilled. Museum leaders said attendance has not returned to pre-pandemic levels and noted that revenue from the museum’s touring exhibitions program has declined. SMM reported a nearly 80% drop in federal and state funding for its science and education programs. It also said operating costs for its riverfront building continue to rise. RELATED: Science Museum to lay off dozens, citing decrease in attendance and funding Meanwhile, the announcement comes about over a year after the museum cut 43 positions, also citing decreased attendance and reduced funding. In 2025, the museum’s annual operating budget went from $38 million to $31 million. The staffing changes are expected to save about $2.14 million in fiscal year 2027. The museum also cut advertising and other non-program expenses and plans to phase out its touring exhibitions program. “Balancing our budget puts us on solid footing to invest in what Minnesotans value most about the Science Museum and what comes next,” Alison Brown, president and CEO of SMM, said. Ken Smith, Chair, Science Museum of Minnesota Board of Trustees said this was an evidence-based process. “We looked closely at every facet of the museum and made tough choices with the long term in mind, not just to balance one year’s budget. The Science Museum can’t cut its way to success. Its future now depends on investment and the support of Minnesotans who care about it,” Smith said. The museum said it is preparing to celebrate its 120th anniversary in 2027. It said it will pursue new experiences and fundraising efforts to address the gap.