Behind every exhibition, performance, and community project in the UK’s arts, culture and heritage sector are the people who make it all possible – fundraisers.
Fundraisers are the connectors, the storytellers, the strategists. The ones building relationships, unlocking funding, and creating the conditions for creativity to thrive. It’s a role that has always required energy, resilience and imagination. But right now, like many other sectors, it’s evolving – and fast.
In recent years, the environment that fundraisers operate in has become more complex. The funding environment is shifting. Trusts and foundations are changing how and when they give. Public funding remains uncertain, and individual giving is harder to sustain.
At the same time, expectations are growing. Fundraisers are navigating new technologies like AI, responding to increased reporting requirements, and needing to demonstrating impact in ever more detailed ways, whilst also protecting the organisation’s reputation. For many fundraisers, this additional activity is all needing to be absorbed on top of an already full workload.
And yet, despite this, fundraisers continue to adapt, innovate and deliver. That in itself is something worth recognising.
Building On What Already Exists
There’s already a growing conversation across the arts sector about the developing needs in the areas of wellbeing, support, and sustainability. Toolkits, training programmes, and peer networks are helping to create stronger foundations.
But as the role of fundraising evolves, so too must the support around it.
And whilst the buzzword ‘resilience’ is an important part of fundraising, it can’t – and shouldn’t – be the whole story. Fundraising is a strategic, skilled profession that underpins the entire sector. Supporting fundraisers effectively means looking not just at individuals, but at the systems, structures and expectations around them.
A Moment To Listen
This is where we have an opportunity.
Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy (an Investment Principles Support Organisation funded by Arts Council England) has partnered with Baker Richards and Arts Professional to launch a new Pulse Survey: The State of Arts Fundraising.
Our vision for this work isn’t just about identifying the challenges for fundraisers – it’s about understanding the full picture. What’s working well. What’s changing. And where support might need to evolve to better meet the needs of the fundraisers undertaking this vital work.
Why Your Voice Matters
Whether you’re a dedicated fundraiser, a freelancer or consultant, or someone who holds fundraising alongside other responsibilities such as an Artistic Director or CEO, your perspective is essential.
By taking part, you’ll be helping to:
- Shape future support and development for fundraising across the sector
- Contribute to a stronger, more sustainable future for arts organisations
- Highlight the realities of fundraising today
Most importantly, you’ll be part of a collective effort to ensure that fundraisers are not just coping – but are able to thrive.
Looking Ahead
This piece of work isn’t about starting from scratch. It’s about building on the strength, creativity and commitment that already exists across the sector – and making sure it’s supported in the right ways for the future.
If you’re part of the fundraising community in arts, culture or heritage, this is your opportunity to be heard.
Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and help to shape what comes next.
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Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy
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