We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Melissa Watson Erickson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Taking the leap to open The Funding Studio was one of the most significant risks I’ve ever taken, both personally and professionally. Before launching The Funding Studio, I had a successful career as an in-house fundraiser. But there was always a part of me that felt something was missing—a desire to do more, to serve a broader community, and to have a more direct impact on the creative landscape across the United States.
The backstory to this risk lies in my passion for regional storytelling and my frustration with the limitations that traditional funding models often impose on artists and innovators. I saw firsthand how many talented creators struggled to bring their visions to life simply because they lacked access to the right funding opportunities. Across various regions, despite their rich cultural tapestries, many areas were underserved in terms of professional support for artists and innovators, especially those with projects that had social impact.
I could have stayed in my comfortable role, continuing to help one organization at a time. But the entrepreneur in me, the part that thrives on building something new and making a tangible difference, kept whispering that I was meant for more. I knew that if I wanted to truly support the development of regional artists and innovators across the country,
The decision wasn’t easy. I was leaving behind a secure job, stepping into the unknown with no guarantees of success. I had to navigate the complexities of starting a nonprofit, build a network from scratch, and convince artists and funders alike that this was something desperately needed. There were countless moments of doubt, sleepless nights, and times when I questioned whether I had made the right decision.
But at the core, I knew this was a risk I had to take. The Funding Studio was born out of a deep belief that regional artists and innovators across the United States deserve a dedicated platform that understands their unique challenges and can provide the tailored support they need to succeed. I wanted to create a space where regional stories with social impact could flourish, where creatives could find not just funding, but a community that believed in their vision as much as they did.
Looking back, I can say with confidence that taking this risk was the best decision I’ve ever made. The Funding Studio has become a beacon for regional talent, offering resources and opportunities that didn’t exist before. We’ve supported projects that are making a real difference in communities across the country, and every day, I’m reminded of why I took that leap of faith.
We support artists by serving as a fiscal sponsor making them eligible to receive philanthropic support from foundations, corporations, and individuals without them having to form and operate their own nonprofit organization. When artists and innovators partner with The Funding Studio they have access to a new avenue of revenue to support their projects. With this partnership, the Funding Studio focuses on the fundraising strategy which allows our sponsored projects to focus on what they are best at, being creative. You can learn more about us at thefundingstudio.org.
Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone, but for some of us, it’s the only path that truly makes us happy. I’m proud of the risks I’ve taken, and I’m even prouder of what The Funding Studio has become. It’s a testament to the power of following your instincts, even when the road ahead is uncertain.
Melissa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Melissa Watson Erickson CFRE, the Executive Director of The Funding Studio, a unique nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting regional artists, innovators, and storytellers across the United States. My journey into this industry began with a deep passion for storytelling and a strong desire to make a tangible difference in the creative landscape. I’ve always been driven by the belief that regional stories, especially those with social impact, deserve a platform to thrive, and that’s what led me to establish The Funding Studio.
Before founding The Funding Studio, I spent years working as an in-house fundraiser for various organizations. I gained invaluable experience in securing funds and understanding the intricate needs of creative projects. However, I began to notice a gap in the support system for regional artists and innovators. Many incredibly talented individuals were struggling to bring their visions to life simply because they lacked access to the right resources and funding opportunities. I realized that these creators needed more than just financial support—they needed a partner who could guide them through the complex world of fundraising, fiscal sponsorship, and project development.
That’s where The Funding Studio comes in. We offer a range of services designed to help artists, filmmakers, and innovators bring their projects to fruition. Our primary services include fiscal sponsorship, which allows creators to receive tax-deductible donations and grants, and fundraising support, where we help craft and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies. Additionally, we provide consultation on project development, helping our clients navigate the often-challenging process of bringing their ideas to life.
What sets The Funding Studio apart from others is our deep commitment to regional stories with social impact. We understand that every region has its own unique culture, challenges, and stories to tell, and we’re dedicated to ensuring that these stories are heard. We don’t just provide services; we build relationships with our clients, taking the time to understand their vision and working closely with them to achieve their goals.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact we’ve had on the creative communities we serve. Through our work, we’ve been able to support projects that address critical social issues, promote cultural understanding, and inspire positive change. Whether it’s a film that sheds light on a pressing social issue or an innovative project that brings communities together, we’re honored to play a part in making these visions a reality.
For those who may be considering working with The Funding Studio, there are a few key things I want you to know. First, we are passionate about helping you succeed. We bring not just expertise but also enthusiasm and dedication to every project we take on. Second, we understand the unique challenges faced by regional creators, and we’re here to provide the support you need to overcome those challenges. Finally, we believe in the power of storytelling to change the world, and we’re committed to helping you tell your story in the most impactful way possible.
In summary, The Funding Studio is more than just a service provider; we’re a partner in your creative journey. Whether you’re an artist, filmmaker, or innovator, if you have a story to tell or an idea to bring to life, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been referrals and word of mouth. I believe this is a direct reflection of the relationships I build with my clients and the results we achieve together. My clients know that I am deeply invested in their success, and they trust that I will bring the same level of dedication and expertise to anyone they refer to me.
Holding the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential sets me apart from many other consultants in the field. It demonstrates my commitment to maintaining the highest standards in fundraising, and it reassures my clients that they are working with someone who not only has extensive experience but also a deep understanding of best practices and ethical guidelines in fundraising.
Additionally, my background in the arts and my extensive experience in both education and professional fundraising give me a unique perspective. I’m able to approach each project with a comprehensive understanding of the creative process and the specific challenges that artists and innovators face. This, combined with my desire to truly partner with my clients and ensure they are set up for success, speaks volumes and is likely why so many of my new clients come through recommendations.
Word of mouth is powerful, and I’m proud that my work has resonated enough with my clients that they feel confident referring others to The Funding Studio. It’s a testament to the trust and results we’ve built together.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
One of the books that has most recently influenced my management and entrepreneurial philosophy is Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This book resonated deeply with me because it highlights the importance of going above and beyond in every interaction, which is a principle I strive to uphold in my work. As a fundraiser, I believe that stewardship is the key to building long-term and fruitful relationships with donors. My success as an award-winning fundraiser is largely due to the personalized touches I incorporate, such as sending handwritten notes and truly investing the time to understand what inspires my donors. By connecting their dreams to causes that need their support, I can create meaningful and lasting relationships.
The concept that “every detail counts” is one I take to heart, so much so that I have it as a sign on my wall. Just like an executive chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant, I spend extra time and attention ensuring perfection and delivering the best possible experience. This attention to detail is not just about the work I produce but also about the relationships I build with my staff, clients, and donors. I see hospitality as a vital element of both fundraising and running a business. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels valued, understood, and taken care of, which ultimately leads to stronger connections and better outcomes.
The principles from Unreasonable Hospitality have become ingrained in the way I approach my work and the culture I cultivate at The Funding Studio. Whether it’s with my team, clients, or donors, I aim to create an environment where excellence, care, and attention to detail are at the forefront. This approach has been instrumental in the success and growth of my business and in fostering the long-term relationships that are the foundation of 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/
