Colchester’s award-winning Firstsite is delighted to announce that it has been selected to participate in the innovative Bloomberg Philanthropies Digital Accelerator Program. This initiative helps cultural organizations across the U.S. and U.K. to strengthen technology and management practices to improve operations, drive revenue, increase fundraising, engage broader audiences, and deliver dynamic programming.
Rachel Skillen, Firstsite Head of Audience and Communications has been appointed as Digital Fellow for the scheme and says: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be part of the program! It’s a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our digital presence and explore innovative ways to connect with our audiences.
She adds: “We’ll be developing our digital tools – such as our website – and trialling new technology, to fully reflect the creativity, inclusivity, and energy that defines Firstsite. It’s about enhancing accessibility, celebrating creativity, and creating more opportunities for people to connect with what we do. Plus, it will allow us to expand our digital fundraising and online shop to help us increase funds so that we can make even more incredible exhibitions and events that everyone can enjoy!”
Over the past three years, the Digital Accelerator Program has been a catalyst for strengthening nearly 150 cultural organizations across the U.S. and U.K. To date, the original 40 participating institutions were able to grow an additional $20 million in new revenue, while also reaching over 1 million new audience members and engaging more than 4,000 new artists and partners.
Firstsite is one of 200 nonprofit cultural organizations accepted into Bloomberg Philanthropies’ new Digital Accelerator Program cohort, spanning artistic disciplines and organizations in 52 US and 28 UK cities.
Sally Shaw MBE, Director of Firstsite says: “Being part of this program is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with leading venues across the US and UK, sharing insights and learning together. It will enable us to showcase ourselves online in a way that truly reflects who we are and what we do and highlight the creative, social, and economic impact of our work, demonstrating why creativity is vital in everyday life. By introducing new digital tools, we aim to break down barriers, celebrate creativity, and bring people together—ensuring Firstsite continues to inspire and support our community in meaningful ways.”
