3-Year Strategic Framework

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is growing, and so is our vision for the future.

Building on years of progress and investment, our three-year Strategic Framework, Welcome, Gather, Grow, guides the next chapter of the Botanical Garden. It reflects our commitment to creating exceptional experiences, strengthening community connections, and ensuring a vibrant, sustainable future.

Developed with input from staff, volunteers, members, community partners, and our Board of Directors, the Framework establishes six strategic priorities organized around three guiding themes. 

Welcome

Creating exceptional experiences that inspire people to return.

We want every visit to the Botanical Garden to be memorable. From beautiful gardens and engaging programs to welcoming spaces and thoughtful hospitality, we’re creating more opportunities for people to discover, explore, and connect with the world of plants.

Our priorities include:

• Complete, Activate & Sustain Capital Investments: Continue transforming our campus through improved gardens, facilities, and accessible spaces while ensuring these investments serve our community for years to come.
• Deepen Visitor Engagement & Increase Return Visitation: Create inspiring, horticulture-driven experiences that encourage visitors to explore, participate, and return throughout the year.

Gather

Strengthening the people and partnerships that bring our mission to life.

The Botanical Garden is more than a destination. It’s a place where people come together to learn, celebrate, volunteer, and connect with nature and one another.

Our priorities include:

• Strengthen Organizational Culture, Workforce & Volunteer Leadership: Invest in the dedicated staff and volunteers who make the Botanical Garden a welcoming, engaging place for all.
• Expand Community Connection & Strategic Partnerships: Build meaningful relationships and expand opportunities for people throughout Greater Des Moines to experience the benefits of plants and nature.

Grow

Building a strong foundation for a sustainable future.

As the Botanical Garden evolves, we’re committed to growing thoughtfully. That means caring for our resources, strengthening our operations, and ensuring we can continue serving our community for generations.

Our priorities include:

• Modernize Systems, Technology & Operational Infrastructure: Strengthen the tools, processes, and resources that help us operate effectively and deliver exceptional experiences.
• Ensure Long-Term Financial Sustainability & Stewardship: Responsibly manage our resources, diversify support, and plan for the long-term care and success of the Botanical Garden.

Building on Our Momentum

Welcome, Gather, Grow began as the vision for our capital campaign, which has helped transform the Botanical Garden through significant investments in our gardens, facilities, and visitor experiences.

Our Strategic Framework carries that vision forward.

While the capital campaign continues to shape our physical campus, the Framework focuses on how those investments can create even greater value for the people and communities we serve.

It’s about more than growing our gardens. It’s about expanding access, creating meaningful experiences, strengthening relationships, and building an organization prepared for the future.

Growing Together

Our future is rooted in community. Every visit, membership, volunteer hour, partnership, and gift helps bring this vision to life.

Together, we’re creating a Botanical Garden that welcomes more people, inspires stronger connections, and continues to grow for generations to come.