Investing in the Arts: Cultural Philanthropy

When?

On-Campus: June 17-28 Summer 2024 

Applications for this program are now OPEN!

WEBINAR: Tuesday 23rd April @ 12.30pm
Recording link available upon request.

Why this Summer Program?

The program is designed and delivered by international cultural professionals and entrepreneurs. This learning experience will provide opportunities to interact with prominent guest speakers from a range of relevant organizations, including leaders of cultural institutions, philanthropists and investors, artists, policy advisors, and start-up founders. 

This summer program is open to students of all backgrounds who wish to better understand development principles and practices and new business models, as they apply to the arts and culture. There are no program-specific eligibility criteria. During the intense 2-week program you will collaborate with a diverse group of peers to develop and finally present a professional-level group project.

The pedagogy will enable you to hone your research and public speaking skills through in-depth textual analysis, case studies, and individual and group presentations.  

Participants will earn an HEC Paris Certificate following successful completion of the program.

Overview

Reduced public funding, increased global competition, digital innovations, environmental transitions, and shifting methods of artistic creation and distribution are rapidly transforming the cultural and creative industry landscape. As a result, cultural institutions and actors must diversify their funding sources and develop new business models to sustain their programming and productions. Many are turning to private philanthropy and looking to attract and cultivate corporate sponsors, foundation partners, and individual donors. In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of development and how cultural philanthropy is transforming the arts on a global scale. 

We will also explore innovative business models that are renewing the art world and hear from successful creatives and entrepreneurs who have turned their passions into professions. A range of experts in the field, including museum directors, philanthropists and investors, policy advisors, business leaders, and contemporary artists will offer first-hand testimonials intended to spark discussion and debate and expose participants to new approaches and potential career paths. 

Through a mix of class lectures and discussions, individual presentations, and collaborative projects, participants will develop an in-depth understanding of the best practices and proven tactics that cultural organizations and entrepreneurs employ to realize their institutional, philanthropic, and corporate development goals. Participants will further master tools and techniques that will equip them to pursue future careers in the dynamic cultural and creative industry sector.

Objectives 

Upon successful completion of the summer program, participants will be able to:
 
•    Understand the fundamental principles and practices of fundraising and development in the arts and culture sector
•    Identify key trends and developments affecting cultural philanthropy and entrepreneurship on an international level 
•    Analyze primary source documents from the agencies and organizations that are shaping today’s cultural and creative industries
•    Apply best practices in philanthropic outreach and entrepreneurial development 
•    Assess the impact of public policies and economic factors on the development and sustainability of arts and culture initiatives
•    Collaborate with peers to develop and deliver a professional-level final project

Methods & Materials

The program will be based on a combination of class lectures and discussions, applications to real life examples and group projects.

All readings are made available in electronic copy to participants. They will include:

-    Reports and white papers by leading philanthropic organizations and government agencies
-    Case studies from leading companies, established artists, and successful entrepreneurs

Class participants will be asked to present readings to the class individually and collaborate with their peers to develop and deliver a final group presentation.

Assessment

All participants are expected to be in class, come with questions, and participate in group discussions. 

Grading will be determined as follows:

•    Presence and participation 30% 
•    Individual assignments 20%
•    Group project 50%

Participants who successfully complete the program will earn 5 ECTS credits. Full attendance is required to obtain the Program Certificate.

All students who are seeking credit are encouraged to consult their home academic institution to validate credit transfer.

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