Initially, formation of a "Friends of the Capitol" group was contemplated and a subcommittee established goals and objectives.
They decided to formalize their group and, with the Legislature's support, formed the Oregon State Capitol Foundation.
Formerly an agency of the Oregon Legislative Assembly, the Oregon State Capitol Foundation was established by statute in 1997 to preserve the historical integrity of the Oregon State Capitol and its immediate adjacent areas, and to provide recognition for its individuals and events that have historic importance.
The Oregon State Capitol Foundation operates with funds from a variety of sources: Earned income is generated from the sale of Pacific Wonderland license plates; revenue is shared with the Oregon Historical Society.
The Oregon State Capitol Foundation is overseen by an all-volunteer Board of Directors made up of current and former legislators, lobbyists, state workers and community volunteers.