Formulated with the guidance of the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation (DAAFF), Our Centre, Our Story draws together a range of insights in relation to art centre fundraising experiences, approaches and successes to date.

Creative Partnerships Australia commenced the development of the publication through a process of online consultation and in-depth individual interviews facilitated by DAAFF. Art centre managers shared with us the details of their fundraising, undertaken so often in remote and challenging contexts.

Raising private sector funds requires a structured, long-term approach and it requires a deep commitment from leadership. It was inspiring to hear the various ways in which art centres are undertaking this work, successfully diversifying income streams, establishing satisfying and long-term donor relationships and increasing the opportunities available to their artists and communities.

We hope this publication will encourage and inspire those centres with fundraising strategies currently in development, as well as those that are just beginning to consider what private sector opportunities may exist for their communities. Art centres are well-placed to engage with a wide range of supporters and we hope that some of the experiences in Our Centre, Our Story will spark many beneficial conversations and relationships.