How Science Zone allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
80%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
15%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
5%
Fundraising
Within typical range
How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.
How to Interpret This Report
What Red Flags Mean
Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.
What Mission Score Measures
The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.
Using This Data for Donation Decisions
Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Science Zone
Is Science Zone a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Science Zone (EIN: 201780236) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 85/100. 2 red flags identified, 4 strengths noted.
Is Science Zone a good charity to donate to?
Science Zone has a Mission Score of 85/100. Revenue: $926K. Assets: $1.9M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Science Zone?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Science Zone is 201780236. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.
What is a Mission Score?
The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.
How does Science Zone spend its money?
Science Zone allocates 80% to programs, 15% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Science Zone's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Science Zone's tax-exempt status using EIN 201780236 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.
AI Transparency Report
Science Zone demonstrates a generally stable financial position with some fluctuations in recent years. While the organization's assets have grown significantly over the long term, from $112,951 in 2014 to $1,811,106 in 2023, there has been a recent dip from a peak of $2,579,005 in 2019. The organization experienced a notable deficit in 2023, with expenses of $668,964 exceeding revenue of $504,011, indicating a need to monitor spending or increase revenue generation. However, the prior two years (2021 and 2022) showed healthy surpluses.
Spending efficiency appears to be a strength, as the organization consistently reports 0% officer compensation, suggesting resources are directed towards programs and operational needs rather than high executive salaries. The absence of reported officer compensation across all filings is a strong indicator of transparency and a commitment to mission-driven spending. The organization's NTEE code A57 (Science & Technology Museums, Centers & Institutes) aligns well with its name, suggesting a clear program focus.
Overall, Science Zone appears to be a transparent organization with a good track record of managing its finances, despite the recent deficit. Its consistent reporting of no officer compensation is a significant positive for transparency and efficiency. The organization's asset base provides a cushion, but sustained deficits like the one in 2023 would warrant closer scrutiny.