Colorado Asian Pacific United hired Keen Independent Research to assess the viability and best path for opening a museum focused on Asian American and Pacific Islander history and culture in the Rocky Mountain region.

The study team researched and analyzed:

• Demographic and market demand indicator data;
• Relevant regional cultural assets and comparable national museums;
• Benchmark museum capital projects and operating models; and
• Feedback from community members and stakeholders about the potential for and impact of museum focused on Asian American and Pacific Islander history and culture in the greater Denver metro area.

‍

Community stakeholder input was gathered through interviews, focus groups, a survey and a study email address and hotline.

Keen Independent synthesized all study research to define a potential museum concept along with estimated cost, size and operating budgets and analysis of potential geographic locations.

‍

Schedule

The study began in March 2025 and was completed in February 2026.

‍

Study Team

Keen Independent Research is an arts and economic consulting firm that has performed similar work for public and nonprofit entities nationwide. Alex Keen, Managing Principal, and Heather Calvin, Associate Principal, directed this assignment.

‍

How to Get Involved

The feasibility study is now complete and opportunities to participate are closed. To learn more about Colorado Asian Pacific United's ongoing work and future opportunities to participate, visit https://www.coloradoasianpacificunited.org/