ACE operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Corporation with the mission to promote, and preserve the history, and heritage of the anthracite coal mining industry through the operation of historical tourist attraction. Its core activities are "historical activities" and its NTEE code is "Historical Societies and Related Activities (A80)" (The National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) system is used by the IRS and NCCS to classify nonprofit organizations).

The ACE IRS Determination Letter is dated 2018. The effective date of exemption was September 12, 2017. Ace's public charity status is as a 509a2 organization. ACE is primarily supported through income earned from preforming its tax-exempt purpose. This income is often referred to as "mission-related income." ACE receives most of its funding through admission fees generated from the operation of the Pioneer Tunnel historical attraction. 

ACE operates on a January 1 to December 31 fiscal year. Funding sources currently include revenue generated from the sales of tickets, food, and souvenirs. ACE employs a local CPA firm to complete the required IRS Form 990. The ACE Business Manager and the CPA review the Form 990. Board members may participate in the review.