The project cost $3.5 million. This included costs for construction, exhibits, educational program development, and an endowment for long-term maintenance of the vessel. The project was supported by a grant of $2.5 million awarded for construction of the vessel to AMISTAD America, Inc. in July 1994 by the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. Major supporting sponsors included: The Phoenix Companies, the United Church of Christ, Southern New England Telephone (SNET), People’s Bank, Mass Mutual Foundation, Mark IV Industries, Advest, Inc., the History Channel, The Seafarers Friends Society, The Mondavi Family of Wines, The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, WTNH News Channel 8, The Regional Water Authority, and The Department of Natural Resources, Washington State. AMISTAD America is actively pursuing additional funding, grants, and gifts to support the long-term life of the project.