Brian Hersh, CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, presents to the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners during a joint workshop highlighting the vital connections between arts, tourism, and economic development. Provided photo

From grassroots workshops to countywide partnerships, collaboration leads the way.

As Sarasota County eases out of summer and into a new season, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County has been hard at work fostering growth, resilience and collaboration across our arts and cultural community. In our continued role as connector and convener, we’ve listened closely to the needs of our local organizations. In response, we are collectively building the capacity of the cultural sector, supporting small and mid-sized nonprofits while also strengthening partnerships that ensure Sarasota County’s creative economy remains vibrant for years to come.

In partnership with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, the Alliance participated in a workshop series created specifically to support small and mid-sized arts nonprofits. Sessions were led by experts in marketing and fundraising, providing practical strategies for building long-term sustainability. Marketing strategist Tracy Spalsbury of Spalsbury Marketing, LLC, guided participants through uncovering their “Brand DNA,” helping organizations identify what makes them unique and how to tell their stories with clarity and impact. Consultant Liz Wooten followed with “Fundraising in Challenging Times,” offering tools for navigating today’s complex development landscape with creativity, resilience and confidence. These workshops not only offered valuable insights but also strengthened the capacity of arts leaders to better serve their missions and communities.

At the same time, the Alliance joined Visit Sarasota County and the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County in a joint workshop with the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners. In the continued harmonious spirit of collaboration, this partnership highlights the powerful intersection of arts, tourism and economic development. From attracting new talent and investment to showcasing Sarasota County’s world-class cultural assets, the message was clear: collaboration across sectors is essential to ensuring the region’s ongoing vibrancy.

By aligning efforts among nonprofits, business leaders, tourism advocates and government partners, Sarasota County is building a more resilient and connected community. As your local arts agency, the Alliance is proud to represent the cultural sector in these conversations and to ensure that the arts remain a driving force in shaping our region’s future.

From customized workshops that equip grassroots organizations with the tools to grow, to large-scale conversations about economic and cultural vitality, these efforts are deeply connected. Together, they underscore the importance of storytelling, sustainability and shared vision. And together, we are cultivating a stronger, more vibrant Sarasota County—one that thrives as a premier place to live, work, create and belong.

Brian Hersh is the Chief Executive Officer of the Arts and Cultural Alliances for Sarasota County.

Brian Hersh, CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, presents to the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners during a joint workshop highlighting the vital connections between arts, tourism, and economic development. Provided photo

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