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Case Study:

Fort Ligonier Strategic Plan & Business Model

Industry

Nonprofit, Arts & Culture, Historic Sites

Our Role

  • Environmental Scanning & Benchmarking
  • Mission, Vision, and Values Refinement
  • Strategic Plan Development (GOST Model)
  • Business Model & Financial Planning
  • Program Innovation & Infrastructure Strategy
  • Implementation Tools & Accountability Framework

Situation

Fort Ligonier, a reconstructed 18th-century British fort, is one of Pennsylvania’s most significant historical sites. With nearly 25,000 annual visitors, the site offers immersive tours, educational programming, and historical reenactments. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted visitation patterns and revealed new opportunities in digital engagement and civic education. The organization’s leadership and board sought a transformative plan to expand its impact—by enhancing infrastructure, launching new educational ventures, and positioning Fort Ligonier as a center for leadership and civic learning.

Solution

The Hill Group guided Fort Ligonier through an integrated strategic and business planning process designed to reimagine its future:

  1. Conducted environmental scans and peer benchmarking post-COVID
  2. Facilitated board and staff retreats to refine mission, vision, and values
  3. Developed a five-year strategic plan with clear priorities, goals, and tactics
  4. Created a complementary business plan addressing staffing, revenue, and sustainability
  5. Identified launch pathways for digital education, a leadership institute, and a modern archival strategy
  6. Provided implementation tools to ensure ongoing tracking and accountability

Results

  • Refined mission and vision focused on leadership, civility, and national reach
  • Defined five strategic focus areas with measurable outcomes
  • Built launch plans for new educational platforms and a leadership training initiative
  • Designed a digitization and archival strategy to expand global access
  • Outlined infrastructure and staffing investments to support AAM accreditation
  • Delivered a financial model to support capital improvements and earned income growth

Behind the Scenes

This planning process was both reflective and ambitious. The Hill Group helped Fort Ligonier balance its role as a local treasure with a broader vision for civic leadership and national relevance. With clear direction and a sustainable business model, the Fort is positioned to inspire, educate, and lead for generations to come.