How can you stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends?

1 Read relevant publications

One of the easiest ways to stay informed about arts and culture fundraising trends is to read publications that cover the sector, such as Arts Professional, Arts Fundraising and Philanthropy, and The Art Newspaper. These publications offer insights, analysis, and case studies on topics such as donor engagement, digital fundraising, corporate partnerships, and impact measurement. You can also subscribe to newsletters, blogs, and podcasts that focus on arts and culture fundraising, such as The Fundraising Coach, Culture Hustlers, and The Art of Asking.

2 Attend events and webinars

Another way to stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends is to attend events and webinars that showcase best practices, innovations, and challenges in the sector. You can find events and webinars organized by professional associations, networks, and platforms, such as the Institute of Fundraising, the Arts Marketing Association, and Arts Council England. These events and webinars offer opportunities to learn from experts, peers, and practitioners, as well as to network and exchange ideas with other fundraisers.

3 Join online communities

A third way to stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends is to join online communities where you can connect with other fundraisers, share resources, ask questions, and get feedback. You can join online communities on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, where you can follow hashtags, groups, and influencers related to arts and culture fundraising. You can also join online communities on dedicated platforms, such as Fundraising Everywhere, The Resource Alliance, and Arts Fundraising Online, where you can access webinars, courses, and forums.

4 Conduct research and surveys

A fourth way to stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends is to conduct research and surveys to gather data and insights on your own donors, audiences, and stakeholders. You can use tools such as Google Analytics, SurveyMonkey, and Mailchimp to track and analyze your online fundraising performance, donor behavior, and feedback. You can also use tools such as Culture Segments, Audience Finder, and Culture Counts to segment and profile your audiences, measure your impact, and benchmark your results.

5 Experiment and test

A fifth way to stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends is to experiment and test new ideas, approaches, and channels for your fundraising campaigns. You can use tools such as Facebook Ads, Google Ads, and Crowdfunder to test different messages, images, and calls to action for your online fundraising appeals. You can also use tools such as Eventbrite, Zoom, and Patreon to test different formats, prices, and benefits for your online fundraising events. By experimenting and testing, you can learn what works best for your organization and your donors.

6 Learn from others

A sixth way to stay current with arts and culture fundraising trends is to learn from others who are doing well or differently in the sector. You can look for examples of successful or innovative arts and culture fundraising campaigns, such as the #SaveOurTheatres campaign by Theatres Trust, the #LetsCreate campaign by Arts Council England, and the #CultureRecoveryFund campaign by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. You can also look for examples of arts and culture organizations that have adapted or pivoted their fundraising strategies in response to the pandemic, such as the Royal Opera House, the National Theatre, and the British Museum.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?