The Fundamentals of Arts Fundraising

Understand the foundations of arts fundraising to build greater sustainability for arts organisations and artists.

Registrations for our Fundamentals of Arts Fundraising workshop are now open to organisations and individuals based in and around Warrane/Sydney.

The Fundamentals of Arts Fundraising workshop is ideal for arts organisations and artists looking for the know-how, confidence and inspiration to kickstart or grow income from philanthropy, donors, and business partners.

Join colleagues in your cultural sector gaining insights into national trends; reviewing essential fundraising principles including the differences between sponsorship and philanthropy; how to be fundraising ready; and strategic insights into crowdfunding, donor circles and trusts & foundations. The course will also explain how to find, retain and build relationships creating long term support using best practice stewardship.

The course will cover the opportunities and resources provided by the Australian Cultural Fund as well as outline matched funding programs provided by Creative Australia.

This workshop is ideal for:

Arts professionals who want to learn the basics of arts fundraising, philanthropy and sponsorship
Arts professionals with some fundraising experience and knowledge
or
Board members of arts organisations interested in diversifying their organisation’s income streams

This interactive workshop will cover:

Business partnerships
Philanthropy
How to make your organisation fundraising ready
Building a case for support
Fundraising strategies
How to develop a fundraising plan

And includes lunch, snacks and coffee/tea.

This is a chance to connect with your peers and learn from Creative Australia’s State Manager, Development & Partnerships (NSW/ACT), who will provide local perspective, case studies and insights on how to implement what you’ve learned.

Creative Australia is offering four Community Access Tickets to the upcoming Fundamentals of Arts Fundraising workshop in Warrane/Sydney.

These tickets are offered free of charge to remove price as a barrier to participation. Places will be allocated by order of RSVP until the allocation is exhausted. Please RSVP directly to michelle.boyle@creative.gov.au

“The ‘Fundamentals of Fundraising’ workshop was a valuable opportunity to consolidate my on-the-job learning as an emerging fundraiser. From the workshop I gained a better understanding of the ‘bigger picture’ of fundraising, which I have applied every day in my role.” – Sophia Halloway, National Gallery of Australia

“Attending the Fundamentals of Arts Fundraising was a really insightful experience, providing me with the knowledge and tools required to refresh our company’s private fundraising strategy” – Katy Green Loughrey, Powerhouse Youth Theatre

About the Presenter:

Michelle has over 20 years experience in the cultural and creative industries, having held significant roles in development and partnerships, marketing, events and public relations.

As a strategic fundraiser with Sydney Dance Company for over 13 years, Michelle gained extensive expertise in cultivating and nurturing meaningful partnerships with supporters at all levels of giving. During her tenure, she played a significant role in increasing funding for all aspects of the company, including artistic programming, national and international touring, professional development for emerging artists and engagement with independent and First Nations artists.

Michelle deeply understands the highs and lows of the vital and nuanced relationships with individuals, Foundations and the private sector. She has also enjoyed coaching and mentoring early career colleagues and peers, and, in 2022/2023, participated in The Art and Science of Fundraising mentorship pilot program, led by Creative Partnerships Australia, now Creative Australia.

Inspired by the creativity of artists and creative workers, Michelle is able to confidently forge successful relationships with a broad range of stakeholders based on a genuine love and curiosity for the arts, and appreciation for the impact that shared experiences can have on our communities.

An international traveller from a young age, Michelle has lived and worked around the world. From early life and schooling in the Middle East, Hong Kong and Ireland, to working life in the UK, Vietnam and Australia.