Revenue Innovation

COVID

Financial Impact

After a record-breaking winter season in 2019, the Houston Zoo was ready to begin a very ambitious 2020. No one could have foreseen that on March 14, the Zoo would be forced to close indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A first-amongst-peers decision was made to close in order to ensure the safety of its staff, guests, and animals. But just because the gates were closed, work at the Zoo did not stop.

SURGE OF SUPPORT PROTECTS OUR ZOO

In the days following our closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we started the Emergency Zoo Fund to help cover the cost of caring for our animals. We were stunned by the response. More than 6,000 generous individuals, foundations, and corporate partners gave more than $1.5 million. We also received thoughtful in-kind donations, including hand sanitizer and food for our animals.

Thanks to your support of the Emergency Zoo Fund, our animals thrived. Animals continued to receive enrichment to exercise mind and muscle. Our veterinary team never skipped a beat as they provided our animals with check-ups and medical procedures. Truckloads of hay, meat, fish, fruit, and greens kept our animal nutrition specialists busy prepping meals to cater to hundreds of appetites.

PULLING TOGETHER

As the financial impact of the pandemic became clear, a Revenue Innovation Team was formed with staff from every department to fast-track new revenue streams. By the end of 2020, programs created by the team yielded more than $1 million. The effort also changed how we create new programs that contribute to our financial stability but are still mission centered.