The AMA Foundation is thrilled to announce that it has received a grant of $140,000 from the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) to support The International Aeromodeling Center (IAC) Improvement Project, an initiative that will enhance various aspects of the IAC's 1,100-acre property and add to member and visitor experiences. The AMA Foundation is matching this funding in excess through donor-specified funding, contributing $250,000 to The IAC Improvement Project.
The IAC Improvement Project will touch on numerous facets of the IAC's property throughout the project's timeframe, which extends through September 2026. Some of the planned additions and improvements include, but are not limited to, the following:
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Updating the National Model Aviation Museum's hands-on gallery, to include the installment of 8-10 hands-on exhibits
- Estimated completion: December 1
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Upgrading the National Model Aviation Museum's outdoor demonstration area, to include the installation of moveable seating
- Estimated completion: July 1
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Installing various aircraft sculptures throughout the National Model Aviation Museum's campus, funded by previously awarded American Rescue Plan grant funds
- Estimated completion: July 1
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Creating and implementing various educational programs, curriculums, and workshops
- Estimated completion: December 1
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Installing a permanent pond dock and walkway
- Estimated completion: August 1
"The $140,000 IDDC grant is a vital contribution to AMA and the National Model Aviation Museum," stated AMA Interim Executive Director Tyler Dobbs. "This funding will help propel The IAC Improvement Project forward, expanding the museum and enriching its exhibits while honoring the legacy of aeromodeling. These improvements will strengthen AMA's presence and have a lasting, positive impact on Muncie, Delaware County, and neighboring areas, boosting tourism and stimulating local economic development."
The main goal of The IAC Improvement Project is to transform the National Model Aviation Museum and entirety of the IAC campus into a premier destination for educational and recreational experiences and activities in Delaware County, Indiana. Following is a breakdown of each larger project leg and how they will positively impact AMA, IAC visitors, and Delaware County as a whole:
Hands-On Gallery Enhancement
The enhancement and updating of the National Model Aviation Museum's 1,300-sq. ft. hands-on gallery will feature 8-10 hands-on exhibits. These exhibits will cover basic and advanced aspects of model aviation and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. By enhancing the museum's educational offerings, visitors of all ages will become more engaged and invested in model aviation in a fun, immersive way. In turn, this hands-on immersion will spark youth interest in aviation-focused careers, the hobby, and/or STEM education as a whole.
Outdoor Demonstration Area Updates
The National Model Aviation Museum's updated outdoor demonstration area will include ample seating for 200 spectators. This moveable seating will allow large groups, such as school, church, and community groups, to experience the wonders of flight firsthand. Visitors will be able to see the concepts that they learned about in the National Model Aviation Museum come to life before their eyes. Additionally, the fence present at this outdoor demonstration area will be extended, allowing for more spectators and enhanced safety.
Aircraft Sculpture Installation
The installation of 1/4-scale aircraft sculptures throughout the National Model Aviation Museum's campus will enhance the experience of museum and IAC visitors. Additionally, these sculptures should attract visitors who are driving by the area, allowing a wider audience to become aware of the National Model Aviation Museum and IAC's presence in Delaware County. While these sculptures were not funded by the IDDC grant, and were instead funded through American Rescue Plan grant funds, they're a fantastic addition to The IAC Improvement Project, and we're excited to see them installed.
Educational Programs and Workshops Implementation
Much like the hands-on gallery enhancements, the implementation of educational programs, curriculum, and workshops will foster community engagement and support by providing valuable STEM education opportunities, getting youth excited about and invested in education, aviation, and their future studies and careers.
Permanent Pond Dock and Walkway Installation
The installation of a permanent aviation-themed pond dock and walkway will provide multiple outdoor attractions that are easily accessible to the public and members of AMA, offering a unique visitor experience. Additionally, the enhanced dock and walkway will improve overall visitor enjoyment, allowing members and visitors of all abilities the opportunity to fish, operate RC boats, and enjoy the view.
The AMA Foundation is extremely excited to get started on this project. Updates will be shared throughout the project's entirety, so stay tuned to see the work that's completed!
"We are thrilled to receive this grant from IDDC, marking a bold new chapter for the hobby and the IAC," stated AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston. "This transformative project will elevate our 1,100-acre campus and the National Model Aviation Museum into a premier Indiana destination, enriching the experiences of our vibrant member community and visitors alike. It reaffirms our commitment to inspiring learning, creativity, and a shared passion for model aviation through a destination that truly celebrates our hobby, sport, and future."
This grant funding was made possible through the dedication and support that you've offered us from the very beginning. The foundation that you—our members and donors—have laid truly impacted the result of this funding. We could not have done it without you. Here's to reaching new heights and spreading the joy of flight throughout The IAC Improvement Project!
