Mission
The Science History Institute collects, preserves, interprets, and shares the rich and often surprising past of science and technology, focusing on the intersection between science and society. Founded in 1982, the Institute aims to uncover hidden stories of scientific achievements and failures, providing educational outreach, public programming, and research opportunities.
Basic Information
Founded in
1987
EIN
22-2817365
Total Assets
$38.68 million
UN Sustainable Development Goals Supported
This organization contributes to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. See the SDG page for more information.
At a Glance

Lunchtime Exhibition
Explores the surprising history behind the school lunch, on view until January 2026.

Disappearing Spoon Podcast
A podcast exploring intriguing stories from the history of science.

Voices of Science
Interviews and stories of individuals who overcame challenges in their scientific careers.
Impact Stats
Grant Amount
Over $590K in Grants Awarded
The Science History Institute received grants from the NEH and Open Philanthropy to support new research projects.
Number of Scholars
Largest Private Fellowship Program
The Institute hosts the largest private fellowship program in the historical study of science, medicine, and technology in the United States, welcoming around 20 scholars each year.
Past Events
Lunchtime Exhibition Opening Celebration
September 27, 2024
The sold-out crowd explored the history of school lunch with a themed food tasting at the Lunchtime Exhibition opening.
Curious Histories Fest
June 8, 2024
An annual festival celebrating science, history, and exploration with family-friendly activities.
Upcoming Events

First Friday: Cozy Chemistry
December 6, 2024
A night of cozy chemistry with hands-on activities and hot refreshment.
Learn More
School Lunch Tour
March 23, 2024
An interactive tour detailing the evolution of school lunches and food science.
Learn MoreOur Programs
Impact Reports
MIP Score (Beta)
The MIP Score is in beta! We'd love any feedback you may have.
The MIP Score and it's methodology is purely used as a way to visualize how a nonprofits public financial data compares against others. It doesn't reflect the unique circumstances and impact that a nonprofit has.The MIP Score should never be used to say one charity is better than another.
Overall Score
69
54
/100
Program Expense Ratio
73.47%
8
/20
Program Revenue Growth
56.27%
20
/20
Leverage Ratio
0.4516
8
/20
Working Capital Ratio
2.363
16
/20
Fundraising Efficiency
0
2
/20
Latest Filing Data: Form 990
Fiscal Year:2022
Source:Source: Self-reported by organization
Financial Details
Revenue
Category | Amount | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Contributions, Gifts, and Grants | 7.039M | 90.37% |
Program Services | 626K | 8.04% |
Investment Income | 124.9K | 1.60% |
Sales of Non-Inventory Assets | -760 | -0.01% |
Other Notable Sources | 0 | 0.00% |
Total Revenue | 7.789M | 100.00% |
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