Smithsonian Institute vs Public Broadcasting Service
Side-by-side nonprofit efficiency comparison from IRS 990 data
Smithsonian Institute (B) and Public Broadcasting Service (A) are close on the LakeQuality efficiency rubric. With grades this close, the choice between them turns on factors outside the rubric: mission alignment with donor priorities, program track record, or geographic focus.
With composite scores this close, the decision should weight non-financial factors: the specific program work each organization does, the geography they serve, the donor's relationship with leadership, and the marginal value of each additional dollar of funding to the organization.
Verdict
Public Broadcasting Service earns a higher Efficiency Score of 80/100 (A) compared to Smithsonian Institute at 73/100 (B). Public Broadcasting Service directs 78.0% of expenses to programs. CEO compensation: Smithsonian Institute at $0 vs Public Broadcasting Service at $0.
| Metric | Smithsonian Institute | Public Broadcasting Service |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency Score Composite of program ratio, revenue growth, reserves, and CEO comp | 73/100 (B) | 80/100 (A)* |
| Program Spending Ratio % of expenses going to programs (higher means more goes to mission) | 78.0%* | 78.0% |
| CEO Compensation | $0 | $0 |
| Revenue | $1.9B | $544.0M |
| Total Expenses | $1.6B | $541.7M |
| Total Assets | $7.2B | $641.2M |
| Category | Arts, Culture & Humanities | Arts, Culture & Humanities |
| Location | Washington, District of Columbia | Arlington, Virginia |
Public Broadcasting Service earns a higher Efficiency Score of 80/100 (A) compared to Smithsonian Institute at 73/100 (B). Public Broadcasting Service directs 78.0% of expenses to programs. CEO compensation: Smithsonian Institute at $0 vs Public Broadcasting Service at $0.