FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

Interkom led a multi-year capital fundraising campaign and pre-branding activities for the Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines. The FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre opened its doors in the fall of 2015 and is an unsurpassed facility of creative exploration for capturing artistic visions and sending emerging and new talent onto the global stage.

After the completion of the Feasibility Study and to support the Capital Campaign fundraising implementation, Interkom utilized an integrated marketing approach and unique donor recognition events to create the buzz in St. Catharines and the surrounding communities that encompass Niagara Region. Tactics include monthly e-newsletters to report on campaign progress; Public Relations; content sharing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Flickr, working in tandem to engage and interact online community, and a responsive-designed website that was updated frequently and search engine optimized. Major Gifts donors have been featured in The Globe and Mail by the award-winning journalist, Paul Waldie, as well as in the local media.

Results: After the fundraising campaign was launched in April of 2013, Interkom wrapped up the Capital Campaign and Community Campaign with over $7,800,000 raised – surpassing the campaign goal by 50%!

“We exceeded our target. We exceeded our fundraising goal. And we we’re able to do it on time. All in all, it was a very successful campaign. Interkom delivers. They’re intuitive and flexible in their plans and are willing to change course if something isn’t working. It’s a proactive approach that ensures success.”
– S. Solski, Founding Executive Director, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, City of St. Catharines

“Martin and his Interkom team are extremely resourceful, supportive and professional. It’s a great pleasure to have them on board.”
– P. Partridge, The Late Chair of Fundraising Cabinet, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre