Statement
For over 200 years the Royal Institution's mission has been to harness science for the maximum benefit of society. We believe that everyone should be encouraged to think more deeply about the wonders and applications of science.
Last year we were able to engage with more people than ever before, in ever more innovative ways. The depth and scale of our growing charitable activities are such that they are impossible to condense into this short statement, so instead please take a look at our 'Highlights of 2015' report.
In the lead up to this year's Annual General Meeting, I am delighted to report that the Royal Institution has now reached the important milestone of becoming debt-free. This position provides us with a strong foundation for future growth, allowing us to expand our existing programmes and introduce new initiatives. Furthermore, as all charitable organisations are dependent on income raised by their supporters we are now confident of attracting new sources of financial support. We are excited by the recent introduction of the new Ri Patron scheme and a revised Ri Membership scheme, which will enable us to deliver a new range of membership benefits and to grow our community of members, patrons and supporters.
We are also in the process of making some changes to the layout of the ground floor of our Albemarle Street building. The Ri Bar+Kitchen has now closed and the Café/Restaurant has been relocated elsewhere in the building, ensuring you can still enjoy our hospitality whenever you visit.
Ri Patrons and Ri Members will have the opportunity to find out more about our current science education and heritage activities and our plans for the future at this year's Annual General Meeting which will take place on Monday 23 May 2016. Please look out for your invitation which will be sent out shortly and I hope you can join us.
Lastly, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our diverse community of supporters and members. As an independent charity that does not receive government funding, we rely on the generosity of like-minded individuals, companies and organisations to continue our valuable work. Find out more about the many different ways you can support the Royal Institution here.