Private Funding of Culture
Issue
Volunteers & donors / Nonprofit sector informationArticle Link
http://www.ccmm.qc.ca/asp/contenu.asp?GrSection=3%2C&Rubrique=6069&asp=2005&lang=2&IdMenu=&tsp=7This
The report indicates that “culture has become a fundamental component of
In the interviews with business representatives, the most commonly mentioned recipients of business support were theatres, classical music organizations, museums and dance organizations. The interviews also revealed that almost one-half of the businesses received 100 or more funding requests per year.
The survey found that business decisions to support cultural organizations are frequently driven by an individual with an affinity for culture, often someone who developed a love for the arts through their home or school life. The report notes that personal contacts are also important for cultural organizations wishing to increase their support from businesses.
Obstacles to enhancing business support include the perception that culture is not a priority among the general population and the perception that many artists are too centered on their own goals to properly portray the benefits of cultural support to businesses. The survey also found that very few companies are aware of provincial tax breaks for cultural support.
The report proposes a four-pronged action plan to increase business support for culture: 1) enhancing communication between businesses and cultural organizations; 2) highlighting the strategic advantages to companies of cultural support; 3) encouraging companies to use the means at their disposal to back culture; and 4) enhancing the business acumen and tools available to cultural organizations.