OUR APPROACH

Ape Initiative operates on a financial model where revenue to cover a portion of annual operating expenses are brought in via collaborations with external scientists, educators, and institutions. Under this model, and breaking from traditional animal research facilities, the responsibility for the apes’ welfare is maintained by Ape Initiative as an independent, non-profit entity with a scientific research and conservation education mission. In this way, costs associated with maintaining our colony of apes are effectively shared among multiple institutions who, in turn, benefit from including these unique apes in their research and education programs. Caring for bonobos requires a long-term financial commitment because of their extended life span and complex social lives. We rely on contributions from corporations, foundations and individuals to meet our annual budget needs.