FULL TRANSCRIPT OF THE PODCAST

Today, we’re tackling an issue that too many arts organizations overlook: getting musicians, dancers, and artists actively involved in fundraising.

This is not about turning artists into full-time fundraisers or asking them to cold-call donors for money. That’s not their job. But here’s the thing: they ‘are’ one of the most powerful voices in the room when it comes to inspiring people to give.

At RSC Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how artists who engage with fundraising create stronger organizations, deeper donor connections, and greater financial stability. Today, I’m going to walk through seven common-sense ways artists can help fundraise without it feeling like a sales pitch or a burden of any kind. More importantly, we’re going to talk about why some artists hesitate to get involved and how we can overcome those barriers.

Let’s get into it—seven ways artists can boost fundraising without losing their artistic soul.

1. Participate in Donor Cultivation Events

One of the easiest and most effective ways artists can contribute to fundraising is simply by being present at donor events—galas, VIP receptions, backstage or gallery meet-and-greets, or even intimate home performances for top supporters. Donors are far more likely to increase their giving when they feel personally connected to the art and the artists who bring it to life.

But let’s be honest—this is where artists sometimes feel out of place. Many worry about what to say, how to interact, or even whether they belong in these donor spaces. And the biggest challenge? Time. Artists have rehearsals, performances, teaching jobs, and personal lives to juggle.

At RSC, we always remind organizations that they need to make it easy for artists to participate by scheduling these events at convenient times and providing some simple coaching. Artists don’t need to make fundraising asks—they just need to talk about their craft and share their passion. That alone makes a donor feel personally invested.

2. Share Your Artistic Journey With Donors

Artists have incredible stories—where they started, what inspired them, the struggles they overcame. These stories are ‘gold’ in fundraising because donors don’t just give to institutions—they give to people and missions they connect with.

The hesitation? Many artists don’t know what parts of their story are compelling to donors, or they feel uncomfortable sharing personal details, thinking, ‘Why would anyone care?’

The fix? Training and reframing. Organizations should help artists craft their ‘elevator pitch’—a short but powerful narrative about why they do what they do. And artists should stop thinking of this as self-promotion—it’s storytelling that fuels connection and funding for the entire organization.

3. Engage on Social Media to Promote Fundraising

Social media is one of the easiest and most powerful tools artists have at their disposal, yet it’s often underutilized for fundraising. A single post—whether it’s a heartfelt message, a short video, or a behind-the-scenes look—can inspire donations in ways that an email or direct mail piece never could.

Why don’t more artists do this? Two reasons: they don’t know what to say, and they don’t want to feel pushy.

The solution? Organizations should provide pre-written templates that artists can personalize, along with simple guidance on how to make an authentic ask. The best posts aren’t formal pitches—they’re personal stories that invite people to be part of something bigger.

4. Participate in Peer-to-Peer Fundraising

Peer-to-peer fundraising is when artists leverage their own personal and professional networks to raise money. This could mean setting up a small campaign, organizing a grassroots effort, or simply reaching out to friends and family for support.

The problem? Artists hate asking for money. It feels uncomfortable or greedy, and many fear rejection.

At RSC, we teach organizations to shift the perspective. Instead of thinking about it as ‘asking for money,’ frame it as ‘giving people an opportunity to support something they value.’ People love supporting friends, and they love the arts—this just connects the two.

5. Offer Exclusive Experiences for Donors

Artists can offer special experiences as fundraising incentives—private coaching sessions, backstage tours, personalized performances, or even a Q&A over coffee. These intimate experiences create deep loyalty among donors and make them feel valued.

The challenge? Artists are already stretched thin and might worry about giving too much of themselves away.

The fix? Keep it manageable. Instead of a two-hour lesson, offer a 20-minute mini-session. Instead of an entire dinner event, do a quick backstage chat. Small experiences can have a huge impact.

6. Advocate for Fundraising Among Other Artists

Artists who understand the value of fundraising can be powerful internal advocates. If they start championing the idea of artists engaging in donor relationships, it becomes part of the organization’s culture.

The hurdle? Some artists feel like they’re ‘selling out’ if they advocate for fundraising. Others don’t know how to bring it up or don’t see it as their job. I actually had one music director say to me (in a tight British accent), “Oh, Robert, I’m not a tradesman.”

The fix? Reframing. Fundraising isn’t about selling out—it’s about securing the future of the art form. Organizations should cultivate artist ambassadors who naturally encourage their peers to get involved.

7. Build Relationship with Donors

At its core, fundraising is about relationships. Donors don’t want to feel like ATMs—they want to feel like partners in something meaningful. When artists take the time to chat, share a story, or just say “thank you,” they reinforce that connection.

The challenge? Artists often don’t know how to start these conversations.

The solution? Keep it simple. Ask donors about their love for the arts. Share a personal anecdote. And always, always say “thank you.”

If you only remember one thing from today’s episode, make it this:

Artists are among the most powerful fundraisers—not because they ask for money, but because they connect people directly to the art. When they engage, fundraising stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like a natural extension of the art itself.

At RSC, we know that when artists are empowered to engage in fundraising, the whole organization benefits. If you’re an artist, consider stepping into this space. If you’re an arts administrator, make it easier for your artists to engage because fundraising isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a shared mission.