How Donorly Helped a Theater Company Complete a $40M Capital Campaign
When a nationally recognized theater company in New York City set out to build a new home for its artists and audiences, it faced a critical fundraising crisis at the height of its capital campaign had stalled—millions short of its goal. That’s when the organization partnered with Donorly, a trusted leader in fundraising consulting for arts and culture nonprofits, to reimagine its approach and rebuild fundraising momentum.
Through a strategic, hands-on partnership, Donorly helped the organization exceed its $27M campaign goal, ultimately raising $40M—a 48% increase. Along the way, the theater doubled annual fund revenue, doubled gala revenue, and completed its arts capital campaign ahead of schedule.
This case study shares how a clear strategy, aligned fundraising systems, and expert arts fundraising consulting helped transform a stalled campaign into a story of resilience, community support, and sustainable growth.
The Challenge
The arts nonprofit faced a critical fundraising crisis at the height of its most ambitious undertaking — a capital campaign for a new theater home.
The organization had the vision and donor enthusiasm, but lacked the internal capacity to sustain momentum.
No Director of Development for several months during an active campaign
Only 1.5 full-time staff managing all fundraising operations
A $27M campaign losing steam without clear leadership or systems
Competing priorities between the annual fund, gala, and campaign
Tight construction deadlines and donor expectations mounting
Without immediate intervention, the organization risked losing both its campaign credibility and its future home.
The Solution
The first priority was to regain control and rebuild confidence across the organization. Donorly provided the structure and leadership needed to stabilize fundraising operations and strengthen donor relationships.
Stepped in with interim campaign leadership to provide clarity, accountability, and focus.
Rebuilt the development team and improved internal communication systems.
Reconnected with lapsed and major donors, reigniting enthusiasm and trust.
Reinforced annual fund and gala fundraising, ensuring short-term financial stability while the campaign gained traction.
Conducted comprehensive prospect research to uncover new opportunities within both the local arts community and national funding networks.
Trained board members and staff in major gift solicitation and donor stewardship.
Integrated the capital campaign, annual fund, and gala fundraising under one cohesive strategy to prevent overlap and donor fatigue.
Introduced data-driven systems to track progress and guide decision-making.
This holistic approach turned a struggling campaign into a high-performing, coordinated fundraising effort—driven by clear strategy and strong leadership.
With a revitalized development structure, a robust major gifts pipeline, and a confident, engaged board, the organization is now positioned for sustained growth well beyond its campaign.
Results:
Raised $40M — 48% increase surpassing the original $27M target
Annual fund revenue doubled during campaign period
Gala revenue doubled during campaign period
Secured and opened a new theater home on schedule