How to Raise Money For A Small Theatre Company

Small theatres are in consistent need of financial support. Larger budgets are beneficial for obviouls reasons, but it is often difficult for theatres to raise this money, so they end up operating on a shoestring budget. Here are a few ways to secure the necessary funds to sustainably run a small theatre.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Mission Statement
• Portfolio
• Long-Term Prospectus

1. Construct a plan for your company to grow, both artistically and financially, in the upcoming year. Take careful note of your mistakes and successes from the past year, and make sure to learn from your mistakes.
2. Assemble an Investment/Production Portfolio that surveys your upcoming season. Include press clippings, budgetary information, and accolades from previous productions. Include your plan for growth, but make sure to have data to back it up. Be ready to admit that you made mistakes, but make sure your donors know that you have learned from those mistakes.
3. Consult with your Board of Directors to determine your overall expenses for the upcoming season.
4. Set a fundraising goal for your theater company.
5. Make contact with previous donors and arrange a friendly meeting with them to inform them about the developments at the theater. Make sure to give them a copy of your theatre's portfolio.
6. If your theatre company is nonprofit, be sure to give them information regarding their tax deductible. Thank them honestly and be sure to give them free tickets to your productions, but offer perks that match with the size of their donation. If your theatre company is for-profit, then either return percentage profits to investors or kindly ask them if they would like to continue their investment in the company.
7. Collect your donations and investments.

Tips & Warnings

• The most important thing is to maintain professional relationships with these people. Even if they don't give you money, you must treat them with respect and kindness.
• Have a humble attitude toward the endeavor. You are asking them for a favor; so be kind and unassuming.
• Never act as if you are entitled to their money. You must be diplomatic and charming.

Who Can Help:

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