The 9/11 Memorial and Museum launched a $75 million fundraising campaign to educate U.S. youth about the terror attacks ahead of the 25th anniversary. Mike Bloomberg pledged to match the next $25 million in donations through Bloomberg Philanthropies, boosting the Never Forget Fund's appeal announced Wednesday. The first $25 million was secured through initial gifts, aiming to reach roughly 100 million Americans born after 2001, according to fortune.com.
The campaign seeks a permanent funding source to support new on-site exhibits and classroom materials that provide basic facts about 9/11 and highlight acts of service inspired by the aftermath. Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, emphasized the importance of remembering 9/11 to show how people can unite in the face of loss. The museum has seen about 28 million attendees since opening in 2014 at the World Trade Center site in lower Manhattan, per fortune.com.
The fundraising effort follows a budget crisis after pandemic closures and concerns over federal interest in controlling the site during the Trump administration. The campaign aims to educate millions of young Americans who do not remember the attacks, framing the legacy around resilience and community service. The museum has attracted nearly 97 million visitors overall, underscoring its role as a national site of memory and education, according to fortune.com.
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum's fundraising campaign was announced on June 3, 2026, with Bloomberg's matching pledge set to accelerate donations. The campaign's success will be measured by its ability to sustain educational outreach to new generations, ensuring the legacy of 9/11 endures through permanent funding and expanded programs.