The Strengths and Virtues of the Public-Private Funding Model in U.S. Economic Development Organizations

European and North American regions are facing a dynamic mix of rapid technological progress, global competition, and tightening public budgets. Yet despite these financial constraints, their responsibilities continue to grow ‒ ranging from business retention and start-up support to driving sustainable and digital transformation, securing skilled talent, and strengthening place marketing.

Opportunities for European Economic Development Organizations to Benefit from Public Private Partnership Models

Strengthening Financial Resilience and Reducing Dependence on Public Budgets
Accelerating Innovation and Market Responsiveness
Enhancing Accountability, Transparency, and Performance Culture
Deepening Regional Collaboration and Cross Border Competitiveness
Mobilizing Private Capital for Strategic Priorities
Strengthening Community Engagement and Social Cohesion

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Andrew Keenan

“The fact that Convergent could make the ask was huge. Working with our director and joining solicitations made me a better fundraiser – that was the right formula for us. Moving forward I feel much more confident in making asks and telling our story, and that is going to make us more sustainable in the long run.”

Andrew Keenan, Executive Director
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Atlanta, GA

Lisa Zaken

“In the span of six short months, our Board went from being nervous about the initial campaign investment to being ecstatic with the attainment of our goal, and our subsequent stretch goal! Convergent can do it like no other. Their system is rigorous and extremely effective. We have nothing but great things to say about this organization!”

Lisa Zaken, President & CEO
Leadership Gwinnett | Duluth, GA

Dion Davis

“The strategy and support offered by Convergent helped our Board expand its vision for the Foundation, which in turn helped to refocus and redefine our organization's impact in our community. The methodology behind their capital campaign process not only helps to raise more money in the immediate, but it also builds best practices for long-term investor relations and lays groundwork for the success of future funding initiatives.”

Dion Davis, Former Executive Director
Jekyll Island Foundation | Jekyll Island, GA

Robin Mauck

“Working with Convergent has been a pleasure all the way around. Their approach is customized to your organization and their expertise is unmatched in the field. The Convergent team immersed themselves in our process, culture, and goals to provide exceptional value during our campaign. They truly walk alongside you every step of the way!”

Robin Mauck, Executive Director
Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett | Lawrenceville, GA

Aimee Hall

“I loved working with Convergent. I never could have done what Convergent did. If you want to run a successful campaign, you need to bring in that expertise. Thanks to their help, our capital campaign really took us to the next level within our community.”

Aimee Hall, Executive Director
Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center | Augusta, GA

Phillip Aldridge

“I wanted to thank everyone from the Convergent team who assisted in our campaign. Of the varying ways the campaign’s success may be measured, I count it a blessing that we achieved what we did. Not just the funds committed but the contacts made, the level of exposure reached, and ultimately, what the funds and exposure mean in terms of how many more we now serve as a result. My thanks is in recognition and appreciation for Convergent serving as our fundraising counsel and for the patience and professionalism demonstrated throughout the campaign. You were a godsend for Valley Healthcare!”

Phillip Aldridge, Board Chair
Valley Healthcare System | Colombus, GA

Jeff Taylor

“Early in our campaign feasibility study it became apparent that we lacked the Asking Rights necessary to conduct a capital campaign. As a result, Convergent’s knowledgeable consultants prepared an extensive plan of action that is a road map for growing our awareness and philanthropy. A successful capital campaign will be possible in the near future. Their entrepreneurial approach will definitely get you where you want to go.”

Jeff Taylor, CEO
MedCura Health, formerly Oakhurst Medical Center | Stone Mountain, GA

Press Release: Convergent and Resource Development Group Merge Photo - Click Here to See

Press Release: Convergent and Resource Development Group Merge

March 1, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 1, 2026For more information, contact:Brian Abernathy, General ManagerEmail: babernathy@convergentnonprofit.com Phone: 678.835.8735 ATLANTA, GA — At the International Economic Development Council Leadership Summit, March 1–3, Convergent announced its merger with Resource Development Group. Effective immediately, RDG will operate as RDG, a Convergent Company. This partnership unites...

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A Guide to the Capital Campaign Feasibility Study: 5 Steps

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Fundraising feasibility studies are the foundation of successful capital campaigns. Starting a major campaign without one is like starting a road trip without a map—it will be challenging to reach the desired destination.At Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, we have a proven process for conducting feasibility studies...

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The Power of Comprehensive Campaigns for Sustainable Growth

May 21, 2025

Many nonprofits struggle with unpredictable fundraising cycles, relying on short-term grants, annual campaigns, and event-based revenue streams. This reactive approach leaves organizations vulnerable to economic shifts, grant expirations, and donor fatigue. Your nonprofit may be feeling this stress right now, given the uncertainty in federal...

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Proactive Communication for Data Center Projects in a Shifting Political Landscape

February 24, 2026

The debate over data centers has shifted rapidly. Once seen as quiet infrastructure, they now prompt organized opposition, election impacts, and regulatory delays. AI, cloud computing, and data storage are now widely discussed. Communities now react to visible facilities tied to power, water, land use,...

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Practical Strategies Nonprofit Leaders Can Act On Now

February 24, 2026

Recent funding disruptions at the federal level have revealed the vital importance of building durable nonprofit organizations. Last year tested many nonprofit leaders in ways few could have anticipated.Funding cuts triggered layoffs across the various sectors and placed even more pressure on teams already operating...

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