ORLANDO, Fla…The Orlando Performing Arts Center (OPAC), a nonprofit corporation, recently announced the results of a fundraising study conducted to determine potential private funding for a performing arts center in downtown Orlando. OPAC fundraising consultant Community Counselling Service Co. (CCS) performed a three-month study and conducted nearly 80 interviews with arts patrons and philanthropists, arts and foundation executives, business leaders, and OPAC board members. CCS estimated more than $75 million could be raised in support of the initiative based on fundraising ranges given by interviewees. However, interviewees indicated donors would be more likely to contribute once they were confident of the leadership and funding from the public sector. OPAC hopes to construct a multi-faceted performing arts complex in downtown Orlando that could include multiple theaters, educational facilities, open public spaces, parking structures, and commercial and residential development.

The fundraising feasibility study’s objectives were assessing perceptions about building a new performing arts center; identifying, educating, and cultivating potential leaders and donors; determining interviewees'
willingness to participate or lead as campaign volunteers, and to provide financial support; as well as identifying potential issues and obstacles to success. CCS determined 85 percent of interviewees have a favorable view of the project. The factors that influenced their support included maintaining the momentum of the project, attracting world renowned artists, a Pre-K through 12th grade arts education component, and a showcase for local arts groups.

"We have a wonderful board of directors who are committed to supporting the effort," stated OPAC President and Chairman Jim Pugh. "Their extensive leadership background will help guide us in the right direction, as the coming months are critical to the success of the OPAC initiative."

"I am confident our community will embrace the opportunity to fund a new performing arts center," stated OPAC Board Member Dr. Rita Bornstein. "These findings clearly demonstrate that there is a desire among
arts patrons and community leaders to support and fund this important project."

The Orlando Performing Arts Center, a 501(C)3 nonprofit corporation, is responsible for determining the feasibility of the arts center complex. The vision of OPAC is to build a destination that elevates the arts, provides the best arts education, generates urban renewal, and most importantly, is programmed to be fiscally responsible in construction and operations. For more information about the OPAC initiative and community involvement opportunities, please visit www.orlandopac.org.