The consultants will keep the staff and volunteers on-track and
optimistic...and they're usually good at talking in confidence with the key
prospective donors to assess whether the institution is ready for a major
effort.  But the best of these firms don't RAISE the money.

Ketchum, out of Pittsburgh, has done good work for museums as has David Ross
and his associates, out of Durham NC.  Depending on your size, budget and
expectations, almost every state capitol has a fundraising consultant or
firm, and it might pay to open a dialogue with one located near you.  Your
nearest college or university probably employs a consulting firm from time
to time, and would also provide a good lead.

-----Original Message-----
From: Staff <[log in to unmask]>
Newsgroups: bit.listserv.museum-l
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Thursday, March 26, 1998 7:18 PM
Subject: Recommend Fundraising Consultant?


>Greetings Fellow Listers:
>
>I wonder if there is anyone out there who would comment on a couple of
issues.
>
>First, what are the pros and cons of utilizing an outside fundraising
>consultant for capital or endowment campaigns?
>
>Second, for those of you who have used consultants, did you employ a
>company outside your city/state/region?
>
>Finally, would you recommend a particular consultant or company?
>
>We are, at this point, more interested in gathering information than we are
>ready to talk about specifics, so any information you might provide is
>useful.  If you prefer to reply off list, send e-mail to:
>
>
>[log in to unmask]
>
>
>Thanks in advance for your input.
>
>Jay Smith