Celebrating Species and Ecosystems for the Nation's 250th
In 2026, the United States will celebrate 250 years of possibility — and the Smithsonian Institution is marking this milestone with Our Shared Future, a bold $2.5 billion campaign to grow the future of its 17 museums, research centers and National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI).
Your support for NZCBI drives real and measurable outcomes: protecting endangered species, restoring ecosystems and helping resilient communities thrive. Join us — and help shape a future full of possibilities.
Ensuring People and Nature Thrive Together
Our planet is at a crossroads. The challenges we face are urgent and monumental, but together with you, present an incredible opportunity for beneficial change.
Be a part of a new era where people and nature co-exist in harmony.
Join the Campaign for Our Shared Future
Nearly one-third of our budget comes from visitors, members and generous donors like you. The Smithsonian’s work is truly unique—our long-term studies of animals in human care and in the wild allow us to expand knowledge, share insights and benefit communities worldwide.
With your support, the NZCBI team and our partners can grow our ability to protect species, ensuring bright and healthy futures for wildlife and humans, and the ecosystems we all depend on.
Join us in inspiring awe, wonder and hope for generations to come.
Together, we can make a difference.
“We are all interconnected — humans, wildlife, nature. It is our responsibility to ensure we conserve and preserve our environment.”
Brandie Smith, Ph.D.
John and Adrienne Mars Director, NZCBI
Our Campaign Priorities
Discover how your support will shape the future of conservation.
Giant Pandas
A New Decade
In October 2024, we welcomed two new giant pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, to the Zoo. Their public debut in January 2025 marked a new chapter in panda conservation and research.
Progress in the Wild
Because of your support of NZCBI, scientific breakthroughs have helped shift panda’s conservation status from endangered to vulnerable, with a 17% wild population increase from 2007 to 2017. Be a part of NZCBI’s next chapter of panda work stands to grow this impact, which also helps 30+ other species in China.
The Future of Conservation
Advances in breeding, medicine and habitat protection support both zoo and wild populations — driving enduring conservation impact and paving the way for future discoveries.
Great Plains Science
A Vital Resource
The Great Plains are an essential landscape for biodiversity, food systems and cultural heritage, spanning 700 million acres across 7 western U.S. states and Canadian provinces. Yet climate change and human activity are pushing this ecosystem toward collapse.
Our Approach
To protect this region, NZCBI’s Great Plains Science initiative advances research, partnerships and education. We work closely with Native Nations, American Prairie, Aaniiih Nakoda College, federal and state agencies, and many others to develop tailored conservation solutions.
Conservation Initiatives
With nearly 30 projects currently underway, NZCBI’s Great Plains work supports Tribal-led restoration of species including bison and swift fox, protects black-footed ferrets and grassland birds, and studies how grazing, insecticides and climate shifts affect key species vital for grassland health.
Asian Elephants
A Storied History
Elephants have long shaped human history—and that of NZCBI, which welcomed its first Asian elephants in 1891. Since then, our scientists have radically advanced the understanding of the species, forming the foundation of knowledge essential for caring for and conserving Asian elephants.
Bridging Continents
While NZCBI’s beloved park in Washington, D.C. is home to a thriving multi-generational herd, NZCBI also supports wild elephant conservation throughout Southeast Asia. Our zoo-based research informs care at zoos nationwide and strengthens wild conservation efforts.
Past, Present and Future
From combating deadly viruses to advancing genetics, reproduction and social behavior research, NZCBI continues to shape the future of elephant care. Looking ahead, we will build upon our work to advance Asian elephant movement ecology, rewilding, health and wellness, and invest in revitalization upgrades to our facilities and technology.
Your support powers a future where people and nature thrive together.
Join us in advancing groundbreaking science — from giant pandas to Great Plains grasslands to Asian elephants — and partner with us to build a healthier, more sustainable world for generations to come.
Opportunities for support range from $10,000 to $5 million.
For more information, contact
NZCBI Office of Advancement
NZP-Advancement@si.edu | 202-633-0703
