We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Watson Erickson, Cfre. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Melissa with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic is driven by my passion for what I do. As the Executive Director of The Funding Studio, I am deeply fulfilled by the work of fundraising for arts and innovation—it truly energizes me. I find purpose in helping impactful projects get the resources they need to thrive, and that dedication pushes me to go the extra mile. The chance to contribute to meaningful change and support a vibrant community of creative projects keeps me motivated to continually grow and expand the scope of The Funding Studio. Every project we support is an opportunity to make a difference, which is exactly why I do what I do.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As the Executive Director of The Funding Studio, my focus is on empowering storytellers and visionaries in the arts and social impact spaces. The Funding Studio is unique in that we work with creative and community-centered projects, offering fiscal sponsorship and a range of services that help bring ambitious ideas to life.
What excites me most about our work is the chance to support projects that have the potential to inspire change and foster connection. Every project we take on has its own story, its own message, and its own potential to make an impact—and we’re here to help it thrive.
This year, we’re expanding our scope in some exciting ways. I’m just launched a new tiered membership service that will provide different levels of support tailored to the needs of our clients. These developments are all part of our commitment to making fundraising accessible, approachable, and, above all, effective.
At The Funding Studio, we believe in the power of storytelling and the importance of regional voices. We’re here to amplify those voices, support meaningful projects, and help bring about the change our clients envision. It’s fulfilling work, and I’m excited for what’s next.”
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on the journey of building The Funding Studio, three qualities stand out as especially impactful: persistence, relationship-building, and a deep understanding of donor psychology. These elements have shaped our approach and are vital for anyone pursuing a career in fundraising or social impact work.
First, persistence is essential in this field. Fundraising is rarely a straightforward path; it often involves facing rejection or navigating complex challenges. Staying committed to the mission, even when the going gets tough, has been a cornerstone of our success. For those starting out, my advice is to view every setback as a learning experience and keep your focus on the bigger picture.
Second, building meaningful relationships is crucial. Successful fundraising isn’t just about asking for donations; it’s about connecting with people who share your vision. Building trust and fostering genuine connections with donors, partners, and collaborators has been key to our ability to grow. For beginners, invest time in getting to know your supporters. Listen to their values and goals, and think about how your work aligns with them.
Lastly, understanding donor psychology has been transformative. Knowing what inspires donors, what concerns they have, and how to communicate in a way that resonates with them can make all the difference. For those starting out, I’d recommend learning as much as possible about why people give, whether through formal training or simply through conversations. This knowledge will allow you to create compelling, authentic narratives that connect with supporters on a deeper level.
Overall, I encourage anyone in this field to stay curious, patient, and passionate about the work. Focus on building a foundation of trust and integrity, and the rewards will follow.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
Our ideal client at The Funding Studio is someone with a clear vision and a deep commitment to creating meaningful change. We work best with those who are passionate about their project and understand its potential to make an impact, whether that’s through art, social innovation, or community building. Our clients often come to us with big ideas and ambitious goals, and we love partnering with individuals or organizations that are as dedicated to their mission as we are to ours.
An ideal client is also collaborative and open to a true partnership. Fundraising and project development require adaptability and resilience, so clients who value open communication, trust our expertise, and are willing to navigate challenges with us make for the most successful partnerships.
We’re especially excited to work with clients who recognize the value of storytelling in engaging audiences and driving impact. These are clients who not only seek funding but also aim to build lasting relationships with their supporters. Ultimately, we’re here to amplify their vision and bring their project to life, so clients who are passionate, dedicated, and engaged in the process are a perfect match for The Funding Studio.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thefundingstudio.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefundingstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093918922566
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-watson-coetzee/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
