Cartoonmuseum Basel strives to keep enhancing its high-quality exhibition and mediation activities, while sustainably expanding its exquisite collection and in-house library at the same time. In doing so, it reinforces its position as Switzerland’s leading museum of narrative art and as an establishment renowned throughout Europe for visual art that tells stories.

As a private institution, Cartoonmuseum Basel receives no public subsidies. It is run by the Christoph Merian Foundation, which provides the museum with an operating budget and assists it with various back-office functions. The museum finances more than a third of its expenditure itself through income from its operations (such as admission fees, guided tours and the museum shop), as well as through special funds for exhibitions, which have to be acquired on an ongoing basis.

In order to maintain its high quality, international appeal and further development of content in the long term, Cartoonmuseum Basel relies on support from its circle of friends known as the ‘Cartoon Circle’, as well as on partnerships with institutions and companies that have an affinity with narrative art. Members of the Cartoon Circle benefit from free admission and other discounts. Sponsors benefit from high visibility with a broad audience interested in a beloved art form, as well as from the international appeal of a very well-attended venue that is unique in Switzerland. They help to secure the future of a cultural institution that is recognised far beyond the country’s borders.