Community Engagement Leverage Des Moines Performing Arts’ large annual attendance (over 350,000) and broad donor network (nearly 7,000 contributors) to propose corporate sponsorships, hosted events, and CSR collaborations that align with education and family programs like the Applause Series.

Educational Partnerships Target schools and youth organizations with the Applause Series and the new Made in the Midwest concert line to offer student experiences, internships, and behind-the-scenes talks, creating you a foothold in Iowa’s education-to-arts pipeline.

Strategic Sponsorships Identify opportunities around expanding the Dance Series, Temple Comedy Series, and family programming to offer season-long sponsorships, branded experiences at Cowles Commons, and co-branded community events with local businesses.

Economic Impact Highlight the organization’s $32 million annual contribution to Iowa’s economy when pitching regional business partnerships, venue naming, and joint marketing campaigns to attract local sponsors seeking measurable community impact.

Leadership & Continuity With leadership transition following the retirement of long-time CEO Jeff Chelesvig, present interim and transition-focused partnerships emphasizing stability, board-led initiatives, and continuity of programming to reassure potential donors and sponsors.