Overview of the Program from McGowan
McGowan Program Administrators offers a specialized insurance program designed for museums and cultural institutions across the United States. Created to address the unique risks faced by these organizations, this program delivers tailored coverage solutions for a wide range of cultural entities—including art galleries, historical societies, botanical gardens, and more. With access to top-rated carriers and underwriting expertise in the nonprofit and cultural sectors, McGowan is a trusted partner for agents and brokers seeking reliable markets for their clients in this space.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
The Museums and Cultural Insurance Program is ideal for a broad spectrum of cultural organizations, including:
- Aquariums
- Arboretums and Botanical Gardens
- Art Galleries
- Children’s Museums
- General Museums
- Historical Societies and Museums
- Natural History Museums
- Nature Centers
- Orchestras and Theater Groups
- Planetariums
Whether your client is a small community museum or a regional orchestra with touring performances, this program offers flexible and comprehensive protection.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
McGowan’s program includes a wide range of coverages to meet the complex needs of cultural institutions:
- Umbrella Coverage: Limits from $1MM to $25MM
- Directors & Officers (D&O): $1MM, with defense costs outside the limits, and coverage for both monetary and non-monetary claims
- Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI): $1MM, including coverage for employees, executives, and volunteers
- Fiduciary Liability: $500,000
Additional features include:
- Coverage for personal injury offenses and publisher’s liability
- Defense of breach of third-party contract claims
- Third-party discrimination coverage
Umbrella “follow form” options are available for General Liability, Auto Liability, D&O, Employers Liability, Liquor Liability, and more, providing seamless excess protection.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
A minimum underlying carrier rating of A- / VI is required for umbrella placement. While minimum premium details are not specified, McGowan works with agents to evaluate each risk on its merits and offers competitive terms based on exposure and operations.
Territories and Availability
This program is available nationwide, including all 50 states and Washington, D.C. McGowan’s broad geographic reach means you can place business regardless of your client’s location.
Why Work With McGowan on This Business
As a leading Managing General Underwriter, McGowan combines deep industry knowledge with strong market access. Their focus on niche programs like Museums and Cultural Insurance ensures you receive expert underwriting support and responsive service. For agents and brokers with nonprofit, educational, or arts-related clients, McGowan delivers a dependable solution to complex risks.
You might have a client who operates a regional natural history museum with rotating exhibits and educational programs. Or perhaps a local theater group that relies on volunteers and seasonal staff. These are exactly the types of accounts that McGowan is equipped to handle—delivering tailored coverage with dedicated support.