IMS Museum Pursuing $30K Dyson Foundation Matching Grant; Donate by Nov. 30 for More Interactive Technology!

The Dyson Foundation has presented the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum with an exciting challenge: raise $30,000 for technology improvements at the Museum by November 30, and the Dyson Foundation will provide a matching grant in the same amount.

 

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation, which operates the IMS Museum, is a 501(c)(3) organization separate from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It relies on admissions, tour revenue, sponsors, memberships and generous donors to maintain, restore and share one of the world’s premier motor racing and automotive collections.

 

After nearly 60 years as a mostly static display of race cars, autos and artifacts, the IMS Museum has started to incorporate more technology into its exhibits and displays, but much work remains to be done to create an exciting and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.

 

“Through the generosity of individual members and supportive outside organizations, the IMS Museum has already introduced interactive kiosks celebrating the many drivers, team owners and personalities in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, plus audio technology for self-guided exhibit tours,” said Betsy Smith, IMS Museum executive director. “However, the sky is the limit on additional technology goals, such as an interactive digital IMS history timeline, 3D representations of trophies, cars and engines, and video boards.

 

“We are grateful for the support we have received from longtime IMS fans and sponsors, and we embrace the generous match challenge presented by the Dyson Foundation.”

 

The Dyson Foundation, headquartered in Millbrook, N.Y., is dedicated to improving people’s lives through grant funding, promoting philanthropy, and strengthening the capacity of nonprofit organizations. Its focus is the Hudson Valley of New York, but it provides grants to worthy foundations nationwide.

 

Examples of technology the IMS Museum would like to eventually incorporate into its exhibits include:

 

•“Mixed Reality” to give visitors an unforgettable interpretive experience with iconic Indianapolis 500 cars, engines and artifacts.

•A 3-D image of the Borg-Warner Trophy, used when the trophy is not in the museum, allowing visitors to learn about every Indianapolis 500 winner via interactive technology.

•Additional interactive, high-definition screens allowing visitors to learn detailed information about every driver, team owner and mechanic associated with cars on display.

 

Donations for the Dyson Foundation match challenge can be made three ways: online, at www.indyracingmuseum.org; by phone at (317) 492-6563; or by mail by sending a check to: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation, c/o IMS Museum, 4790 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46222.

 

IMS Museum PR