CREATIVE CAPITAL
Fundamentals for Successful Fundraising in the Arts
Fundraising in arts & culture isn’t just about asking for money—it’s about developing a deep and wide community of passionate supporters who are invested in your mission. Creative Capital, a 10-part video series from RSC Associates, is your practical guide to building that community through a strong, sustainable fundraising program for your organization. Hosted by fundraising expert Bob Swaney, each short session offers real-world strategies rooted in decades of experience helping over 150 arts groups raise hundreds of millions in support.
From setting goals to making the ask, cultivating donors to engaging your board, this series gives you the tools—and the confidence—to fund your mission with purpose and clarity. Whether you're just getting started or ready to level up, Creative Capital will help you build the relationships and strategies that lead to long-term success.
Kick off the series with the fundamentals that fuel fundraising success. In this opening session, Bob Swaney—Founder of RSC Associates—shares the core principles that have helped over 150 arts and culture organizations build stronger, more sustainable contributed revenue programs. You’ll explore what makes a solid fundraising foundation, why the Annual Fund is your most reliable source of income, and how to align your structure with proven best practices. With a clear framework and actionable next steps, this session sets the stage for long-term growth—and smarter fundraising.
Strong fundraising starts with strong relationships. In this session, Bob Swaney shares how to build lasting donor connections using RSC’s relationship-based approach. Learn to apply the Donor Flywheel, frontload your efforts, and engage your Board for long-term momentum. It’s all about strategy over transactions—and actions you can actually control.
Behind every strong Annual Fund is a smart plan. In this session, Bob Swaney shows you how to set clear, data-informed goals, build a practical fundraising calendar, and front-load your efforts for early momentum. Learn how to track more than just dollars—like donor retention and gift averages—to drive consistent, year-over-year growth.
A great prospect list is more than a spreadsheet—it’s a strategy. In this session, Bob shares how to build a dynamic, targeted pipeline that prioritizes warm leads and long-term relationships. Learn how to tap your internal networks, especially Board connections, to identify and engage donors who are most likely to say yes.
Fundraising success starts from the inside out. In this session, Bob explores how internal mindset, staffing, and organizational alignment shape your fundraising outcomes. Learn how to assess your team’s readiness, align time and roles around strategy, and create a culture where fundraising is focused, supported, and performance-driven.
The right message turns attention into action. In this session, Bob walks through how to craft clear, compelling fundraising messages that connect your impact to donor values. You’ll learn how to tailor messages by audience, avoid jargon, and keep your case consistent across conversations—so every ask lands with clarity and purpose.
Making the Ask doesn’t have to feel intimidating. In this session, Bob breaks down the anatomy of a successful Ask—from scheduling the meeting to closing the gift. You’ll learn how to use permission-based language, align the Ask with donor priorities, and adapt to different gift types—all with clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
Great fundraising doesn’t stop at the gift. In this session, Bob shows how to turn your donors into long-term supporters through intentional stewardship. Learn how to embed recognition, engagement, and reporting into your daily operations—and build deeper relationships that increase retention, satisfaction, and commitment.
A strong fundraising Board doesn’t just happen—it’s built through structure, clarity, and support. In this session, Bob shows how to recruit with purpose, set expectations that stick, and activate your Board in meaningful ways. Learn how to build a Board that is informed, engaged, and ready to partner in achieving your fundraising goals.
Planned giving doesn’t have to be complex. In this final session, Bob Swaney outlines how to integrate legacy giving into your fundraising mix using straightforward tools, clear messaging, and a simple prospecting strategy. You’ll learn how to talk about planned giving with confidence—and build long-term impact without overwhelming your team or your donors.
You’ve reached the final episode of Creative Capital: Fundamentals for Successful Fundraising in the Arts.
In this wrap-up, Bob Swaney highlights what’s next: staying focused, applying what you’ve learned, and exploring additional ways RSC Associates can support your success, from coaching to strategic planning to hands-on fundraising support.