Non-profit arts organizations succeeding in the recession

The purpose of this document is to identify key factors leading to success of arts and cultural non-profit organizations in America during the recession. Secondary research includes a literature review and case study analysis. Eleven interviews were conducted as primary qualitative research. The main themes from the primary research are as follows: (1) Nonprofits are like for-profit businesses in many ways. (2) Collaboration is necessary. (3) Organizations need to build new relationships within their communities and retain existing donor relationships. (4) Think conservatively regarding fundraising and organizational growth. (5) Direct your organization's focus back to its mission. Nine best practices are recommended for arts nonprofits during this recession.