At Birds Connect Seattle, we believe that birds have the power to connect people to science, conservation, and each other. That work is only possible because of our generous community of members, volunteers, and partners who believe in our mission.
That’s why we are deeply grateful to share that Birds Connect Seattle has been selected as the recipient of two generous grants from 4Culture: the Science and Technology Sustained Support grant and the 2026 Public Free Access Award. These investments are more than funding for programs, they are meaningful affirmations of the values at the heart of our work.
Grounded in Science
One of Birds Connect Seattle’s core values is simple but essential: Science. Our policies and programs must be informed by science.
The Science and Technology Sustained Support grant provides unrestricted operating support to nonprofit organizations across King County delivering science and technology-focused programs for the public benefit. Flexible funding like this allows us to strengthen programs across our organization and respond where support is needed most.
Science informs every aspect of our work. For example, our youth curriculum is rooted in scientific learning and inquiry. We participate in public school STEM and STEAM nights to inspire curiosity and environmental awareness in young people. We also lead or administer five community science programs that help inform our conservation priorities while engaging community members directly in bird monitoring and research.
From classrooms to field outings to conservation initiatives, science helps guide how we educate, advocate, and connect people with the natural world. We are honored that 4Culture recognizes the importance of this work and is investing in its future.
Expanding Access for Our Community
We are equally honored to be named a 2026 Public Free Access Awardee. This program helps reduce the barriers that admission and participation fees pose for many King County residents, particularly those in underserved communities, and for visitors seeking meaningful cultural and educational experiences.
This support aligns directly with another of our core values: Equity and Inclusion. Equity and inclusion are necessary to achieve our mission.
Birds, nature, and conservation should be accessible to everyone. These funds help us continue making that vision possible by supporting free and reduced-cost participation in our programs and experiences.
The grant will help sustain access to resources such as our bird skin specimen collection and rotating exhibits, and maintain sliding-scale pricing for youth and adult programs like Bird University, lectures, and camps. It also supports programs that are always free and open to the public, including our very popular Neighborhood Bird Outings.
By helping remove financial barriers, this funding allows more people to experience the joy of birds, build connections with nature, and participate in conservation regardless of income or background.
Looking Ahead
We are incredibly thankful to 4Culture for investing in Birds Connect Seattle and in the communities we serve. These grants help sustain and grow programs that connect people to birds through science, education, and inclusive community experiences.
We also know this work is made possible through the continued support of our members, volunteers, staff, and community partners. Together, we are building a future where more people can experience the wonder of birds and become part of protecting them.
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