About

Fundraiser with Arts Industry Expertise

  • 12+ years of professional fundraising experience

  • New England based

  • Life-long performing dance artist

  • M.A. Arts Administration, Graduate Certificate Fundraising Management, Boston University

  • Familiarity with the needs of small & mid-sized community-based non-profit organizations

  • Specializing in grant writing and crafting compelling fundraising communications

  • Exceptional success rate in approved grant applications over the course of my career

  • Flexible working arrangement and transparent pricing

How I Work

  • Available for complimentary, no obligation initial email and/or phone exchanges so you can tell me about your organization and its fundraising needs

  • I will prepare a custom proposal for you, outlining my fee structure and anticipated # of hours needed to complete your project

  • All new client proposals will include a one-time $100 set up fee, so I can spend time learning about your organization’s mission and core programs

  • No contract or minimum amount of hours worked required

    What that means:

    I bill hourly, and no project is too small. I understand priorities (and budgets) at small arts organizations are in constant motion. If you need to cancel our business arrangement for any reason, I will send you a final invoice for my hours worked up to that point. If your project looks like it’s going to take me more time to complete than I expected, I will always be upfront and consult with you before continuing to work extra hours. No wasted dollars or unexpected bills for your organization, ever!

Melissa deFriesse LinkedIn

Webinar on Fundraising for Dance Companies *
* Melissa is a Guest Speaker for the first 30 minutes

References and Work Samples Available Upon Request