How Can A Non-Profit Adapt To A Changing Marketplace?

The national chapter of an international sport association which had traditionally served as the feeder system for the elite competitors was grappling with a series of issues: declining membership in the face of growing participation; loss of land/venues/competitions; concentration of resources around a few top competitions; aging volunteer force not being rejuvenated; internet streaming taking focus and resources away from live competitions and the alienation of lower level competitors.

RDA prepared extensive market research, led in-depth interviews and participated in collaborative task forces across the leadership of the sport (both historical and present). The core finding was that the traditional marketplace which had supported the organization and the sport was disappearing. If the organization, its members, donors and leaders were to have a future, they must adapt to these changes. The future was upon them.