Key Elements
- 2,026 new donors
- Contributed revenue increased from $6.3 million to a record $9.98 million
The Challenge
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) experienced a decline in its endowment and reached a crisis point that threatened the future of the institution. The ISO decided to embark upon its most critical and aggressive fundraising campaign to reengage lapsed symphony donors, find new donors, and increase the awareness of the ISO and its imprint on the community.
The Solution
While providing interim development services, CCS helped the symphony meet a new donor challenge campaign as well as increase the annual fund by 50 percent. The thoughtful strategy, messaging, and methodology pursued by the ISO, coupled with the tremendous support from the community, resulted in 2,026 new donors and increased contributed revenue to nearly $10 million—a record for the ISO.
The Impact
This extraordinary accomplishment helped the organization restore its credibility with our funding community, and set us up for future fundraising success. CCS helped organize a new systematic approach to fundraising for the development staff and established a new level of engagement, energy, and commitment from the ISO’s board of directors.
Gary Ginstling, Former CEO, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
More Case Studies
Navy Pier
Central U.S.
CCS partnered with Navy Pier to further their impact through a critical bridge campaign and develop a plan to expand and diversify Navy Pier’s philanthropic funding sources.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Mid-Atlantic and Southeast U.S.
CCS partnered with NMAAHC and its leadership on a landmark campaign, which exceeded its goal by raising more than $320 million in private philanthropic support for its historic opening in Washington, DC.
Utah Symphony and Opera
Western U.S.
USUO sought to maintain its status as the premiere local provider of orchestral and operatic art forms. CCS worked with the institution to raise more than $30 million on a $25 million goal, allowing them to attract high-caliber talent and ensure its success for decades to come.
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