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Fundraising Strategy for York Archaeological Trust

15 April 2025

“Philanthropy Company have provided exemplary consultancy services for York Archaeology. Through understanding our organisation, its history and its current challenges and aspirations, they have crafted a deliverable fundraising strategy that is focussed on our specific needs. They have a wealth of experience and provide professional and incisive insight, which has given us a plan whose implementation we are now focussed upon. In addition, they are, without exception, great people to work with which makes the process both pleasurable and an opportunity to learn and gain fresh insight into your organisation.”

David Jennings, CEO, York Archaeology

 

Challenge

York Archaeological Trust (YAT) plays a key role in York’s cultural landscape, blending archaeological research with educational experiences. However, its reliance on ticket revenue was beginning to pose a challenge to long-term sustainability. With major refurbishments planned for its attractions, YAT faced the added strain of a potential loss in income due to the temporary closure of its flagship venue. YAT recognised the need to diversify revenue streams, and requested our help to review its fundraising potential.

Response

YAT engaged Philanthropy Company to assess opportunities for re-launching a philanthropic fundraising programme. Our approach included conducting interviews with senior staff; reviewing YAT’s strategic documents, plans and historic fundraising data; and conducting research into competitor funding sources. Based on this research, we provided a set of phased, actionable recommendations to be delivered over a 12 month period, which would help to set them up for future fundraising growth.

Impact

We conducted eight interviews with senior stakeholders to gather insights into YAT’s fundraising needs and challenges. Through this process, we identified 26 priority funding opportunities for review. Building on these findings, we delivered a detailed 12-month roadmap with recommendations spanning strategic, cultural and operational areas. This roadmap is now being actively used by the YAT team to prioritise their fundraising activity in the months ahead.

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