The Museum of Science & History received a $500,000 grant from the PNC Foundation to expand the museum’s early childhood education programs as it plans a new facility on the Downtown Northbank along the St. Johns River.
The contribution brings PNC’s total investment to $1 million through the museum’s capital campaign.
“PNC’s continued commitment to bringing a transformative museum to Jacksonville is the latest milestone in our fundraising momentum. As we progress closer to our goals, we invite others to join us in shaping a cultural legacy for generations to come,” Jill Davis, museum board chair, said in an April 28 news release.
MOSH said its capital campaign continues to build momentum, with fundraising nearing $100 million. The museum is raising private funds to build a proposed new facility at a Shipyards site immediately east of Hogans Creek. MOSH closed its Southbank museum Sept. 1, 2025, and the building is scheduled for demoliton.
The release said PNC’s grant will fund the creation of an interactive area in the new museum for children under 5, with hands-on STEAM exhibits, outdoor exploration spaces and other resources that foster cognitive, creative and social development.
“At PNC, we understand how critical the early years are to a child’s development, and how important it is to give our youngest learners the chance to explore, grow and thrive,” Chris Kalin, PNC regional president for North Florida, museum board member and transformation committee chair, said in the release.
“This museum will always be a place where curiosity comes to life, and we’re excited to help ensure every child in our community has access to the type of educational experiences that can shape their future.”
MOSH said the new museum will include more than 7 acres of indoor and outdoor learning.
In March 2025, Jacksonville City Council approved an amended agreement with MOSH, the city and the Downtown Investment Authority to allow for the new museum’s construction.
Under the agreement, MOSH will construct the building and design a surrounding park, with the city providing $880,000 toward the park’s design.
The agreement calls for the city to own the building and lease it to the museum for a 40-year term at $1 per year. The city will build a park on the site, provide road and utility work and construct a length of the Northbank Riverwalk on the property as part of $20 million in improvements already funded in the city’s Capital Improvement Plan.
The city has committed an additional $50 million plus the funding for design.