WTC Memorial Museum fundraising hits $300M mark.

World Trade Center Memorial Foundation chairman Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has announced major progress in the effort to build the WTC Memorial and Museum, with over $300 million in private funds raised to date.

Over $165 million was raised in approximately six months towards the Foundation's $350 million fundraising campaign. At a meeting of the Board of Directors this week, the Foundation made a number of key decisions helping to move the project forward.

Thinc Design, Inc., in partnership with Local Projects, LLC, was chosen as the lead exhibition design firm for the Memorial Museum; Octagon, Jack Morton Worldwide, and Weber Shandwick, sister agencies within The Interpublic Group (IPG) were selected to help plan and execute the Foundation's upcoming national outreach tour; and Howard P. Milstein was named to the Board of Directors.

"Just as we came together to support our city and our country after September 11, 2001, thousands of people are coming together again to support building the Memorial and Museum," Foundation Chairman Mayor Bloomberg said.

"Every contribution, both large and small, helps make this national memorial a reality. Thanks to corporations, foundations, and individuals from across the country and around the world, who are uniting behind our efforts, we have quickly reached this major fundraising milestone.

"We hope that thousands more will lend their support for this important cause."

More than 32,650 contributions have come from individuals in all fifty states and 23 foreign nations. 66 leadership gifts of $1 million and over were made by corporations, foundations, and individuals.

The Foundation's private fundraising goal of $350 million includes funds to support capital and planning costs, as well as an initial endowment to support operations once the Memorial and Museum open.