Annual Appeal 2024

Eli Whitney Museum

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This year, more than ever, your support has brightened the lives of young people throughout our community. At the Eli Whitney Museum & Workshop, we create hands-on, project-based learning experiences that ignite creativity and curiosity in thousands of children each year. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve been able to put over 40,000 projects in the hands of children throughout Connecticut—lighting the way for discovery and inspiration.

Project-based learning is more than building—it’s a transformative way of thinking. By engaging children in designing, creating, and problem-solving, our programming helps them develop critical skills like perseverance, collaboration, and innovative thinking. These experiences equip young learners not just for the classroom, but for life, fostering confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

We can’t do this without you. Your donations are essential to keeping these programs accessible to all. From working models of early inventions to playful explorations of engineering and art, your support ensures every child has the opportunity to discover their potential. Last year, because of donors like you, we were able to offer scholarships to over 100 children—ensuring no child was left out of this transformative experience.

Please consider making a contribution today. Your gift will directly support the work that brings meaningful, project-based learning to our community. Together, we can nurture the sparks of imagination and build a brighter future for the next generation of thinkers, inventors, and dreamers.
Thank you for believing in the power of curiosity and for helping us illuminate the magic of making.

Over the past year:

  • Your support enabled us to produce over 40,000 projects for schools and museum guests.
  • 801 individuals attended summer camps. Because of your donations, 1/8 of campers could attend on scholarship!
  • 105 apprentices participated in our year-round training program. This is not possible without your help.
  • How your generosity makes a difference


    10% – Design Fund
    Each year EWMW designs new projects for School Groups, Community Partners, and Summer Programs. The Design Fund enables our apprentices and staff to work together on vibrant new ideas.

    25% – Apprentice Fund
    The Apprentice Fund supports training and development. This program is the core of all that we do at EWMW. We need your support to make a difference in the future of our community and beyond.


    50% – Scholarship Fund
    The Scholarship Fund opens our doors to a wider community by offering scholarships, Title I funding support, and always free admission to the museum.


    15% – Jack Viele Fund
    The Jack Viele Fund expands our community of learners. Your support provides individualized assistance when needed. We believe everyone is capable and provide opportunities for apprentices to embrace unique learning styles.




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