Preserving and Promoting African American History: A Case Study on a Small Nonprofit Museum
The client is a small nonprofit museum with a mission to preserve and promote African American history and culture through both virtual and in-person events. As a nonprofit organization, they faced unique challenges related to funding, volunteer support, and operations management. However, by offering a diverse range of events and activities, the museum has the potential to attract a wide audience and build a strong community of supporters.
Situation
Our client recognized the importance of creating a sustainable business plan to ensure long-term viability, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. They understood that a shift in their operations may be necessary to adapt to the changing circumstances and ensure success. Our team was tasked with assisting the client in organizing their priorities and ideas, which ranged from pandemic-related challenges such as reopening strategies, to typical nonprofit operations including funding and volunteer support. By working closely with the client and leveraging our expertise in business strategy, we were able to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses their short-term and long-term needs while also aligning with their mission of preserving and promoting African American history and culture.
Challenge
The client had identified three key areas where they required assistance to ensure long-term strategic success. Firstly, they needed help with their financial reporting process as they were struggling to keep track of the money coming in and out of their museum. Secondly, they wanted to set up mechanisms for increasing the number of supporters and volunteers, particularly from the local university. Lastly, they sought to identify pathways for large-scale funding to lighten financial burdens, and build stronger relationships with individual donors.
Approach
Using a three-pronged strategy, the team approached the client's challenges:
Financial Report Strategy: The team assisted in hiring a bookkeeper by researching bookkeeping companies that specialize in serving nonprofits and exploring different bookkeeping programs such as Quickbooks.
Community Outreach Strategy: The team focused on creating a reliable and sustainable stream of support by reaching out to local student organizations to discuss internships and volunteer partnerships with the client. They also explored ways to reconnect with previous volunteers who had been active with the client before the pandemic.
Fundraising Strategy: The team aimed to establish multiple steady streams of funding. They researched large-scale grants specifically targeted towards history and culture and reached out to local small businesses to discuss potential "round-up" campaigns that could benefit the client.
Impact
The Rem team’s comprehensive approach had a significant impact on the client, providing them with a roadmap for long-term success. The team not only recommended a reputable bookkeeping firm that catered to nonprofits, but also helped the client enhance their Mailchimp capabilities and expand their volunteer pipeline by forging relationships with local student organizations. The team’s efforts resulted in the successful recruitment of volunteers for the client’s reopening event.
Furthermore, the team’s fundraising recommendations, including the use of email templates and outreach to local businesses, helped the client establish multiple steady streams of funding. As a result, the client is currently in the final stages of applying for a $500,000 grant, which was sourced from the Rem team’s thorough research on high-value grants that the client should apply for. As a result, the Rem team’s recommendations have helped the client move towards a more sustainable business model and secure a more stable financial future.
Team Breakdown
Team Lead: Claire Patterson
Strategist: Britney Ni
Strategist: Carlos Finales
Strategist: Michael Hwang
Junior Strategist: Jordan Brown
Relevant Background Information
Business Type: Non-Profit
Industry: Muesum
Location: Flordia
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