Smithsonian Enterprises (SE) was formed in 1999 by the Smithsonian Institution's Board of Regents to consolidate and bring professional management to the commercial activities of the Institution. SE partners with a variety of internal constituents including Museum Directors, the Secretary of the Smithsonian and other administrative functions (legal, tax, government relations, central planning finance functions, etc) to deliver profitable products and services that further the Smithsonian's mission.

Smithsonian Enterprises operates Media and content businesses through a variety of distribution platforms including print & online magazine publications & books as well as the Smithsonian Channel, including cable television programming in high definition; Retail experiences including museum & airport stores, IMAX theaters, online and print catalog sales in addition to overseeing food & beverage and simulator concessionaires; educational adult and student travel experiences; and consumer product licensing