Cartoonmuseum Basel aims to provide high-quality exhibitions and mediation, while further expanding its exquisite collection and in-house library.

However, Cartoonmuseum Basel is a private institution and receives no public subsidies. It is funded by a legally dependent foundation under the umbrella of the Christoph Merian Foundation (CMS). CMS manages the foundation’s assets and supports the museum’s back office, but cannot provide any direct financial support. The running costs of Cartoonmuseum Basel are covered by the income from the foundation’s assets. The museum finances more than a third of its expenditure through income from museum operations (admissions, guided tours, museum shop), as well as special funds for exhibitions, which have to be acquired on an ongoing basis. It is therefore dependent on contributions from its circle of friends known as the ‘Cartoon Circle’, as well as on partnerships with institutions and companies that have an affinity with satirical art. Members of the Cartoon Circle enjoy free admission to the museum and other benefits. Sponsors benefit from high visibility with a broad audience interested in a beloved art form, and from the international appeal of a popular museum that is unique in Switzerland.