Thursday (5/17) on The Stage, Natalie Woolman writes, “Arts Council England has announced awards to venues including the Palace Theatre Watford, Hackney Empire and Sadler’s Wells worth a total of £30 million today. The money is being distributed through ACE’s Catalyst programme, which is aimed at helping cultural organisations to increase their fundraising potential. Overall, 173 organisations have been given more than £30 million to develop their fundraising capacity and make themselves more attractive to potential donors. The funding stream announced today is specifically for organisations looking at capacity building and for match-funding schemes. … Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt said: ‘There’s huge, unlocked potential for fundraising across the cultural sector. While some claim that there’s no money to be raised outside big London organisations, I’ve seen for myself what professional, dedicated fundraising expertise can deliver in every corner of the country. We recognise there’s a challenge in making sure the right skills are available, particularly in smaller organisations, which is why these grants are a huge leap towards a future of greater financial independence for hundreds of smaller arts groups from Cornwall to Cumbria.’ ”
Posted May 18, 2012
