Case Study: AIA Seattle and Seattle Architecture Foundation

Fundraising Partners NW was retained by the American Institute of Architects Seattle (AIA Seattle) and the Seattle Architecture Foundation (SAF) to conduct a capital campaign feasibility and planning study. The study’s purpose was to test the viability, community readiness and potential timing for the establishment of a proposed urban center for design to be located within the Seattle/Puget Sound region.

a center for environment logo.

Working with leadership of AIA Seattle and SAF, FPN produced a case for support, compiled a list of 82 prospective interviewees and developed a qualitative questionnaire to capture the insights and fundraising potential of selected stakeholders who could play a part in the leadership, planning, development and creation of the proposed center. In-person surveys were conducted with 57 key stakeholders.

Information from the interviews was compiled into a comprehensive report which provided a roadmap of how best to achieve the center’s short-term goals and position itself for long-term success. Specific deliverables included critical information on AIA and SAF’s organizational strength, leadership and institutional readiness; the proposed campaign’s climate and timing; potential donors’ giving potential; and possible locations and names for the center.

FPN staff and the client considered the study critical to preparing for a future, successful capital campaign.