Beyond Expectations: How the Greater Springfield Partnership Surpassed Its Capital Campaign Goals

The Greater Springfield Partnership (GSP) recently concluded its EXPAND 2029 capital campaign, raising more than $6.5 million — a 60% increase from its previous campaign in 2020. This success is a stunning display of community trust, organizational excellence, and community commitment. The Partnership’s ambitious goal and ability to deliver on its promises are the primary reasons for the tremendous increase in funding from the previous campaign.

Building on a Solid Foundation

The story of the EXPAND 2029 campaign began five years ago when GSP launched its first capital campaign. Despite the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a pivot to virtual fundraising, the campaign raised over $4 million. This initial success set the stage for even greater achievements, as GSP’s proven track record inspired confidence among investors and the community.

“Springfield had a very strong five years of growth and recruitment,” explained Steve Stevens, Senior Project Director at Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, who helped coordinate the campaign. “They delivered on everything they said they would do, which gave them the credibility to set a much more ambitious goal for the next campaign.”

Planning and Execution: A Collaborative Effort

In preparation for EXPAND 2029, GSP conducted a hybrid feasibility study, interviewing 60 community stakeholders to gauge support and potential funding. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with respondents expressing confidence in GSP’s leadership and its ability to execute its vision. Key staff members like Horton Hobbs, Mike McDorman, and Amy Donohoe were repeatedly recognized for their dedication and effectiveness.

The campaign began with a “quiet phase,” during which pledges were gathered before publicly announcing the $6.5 million goal. By the time the campaign was publicly announced and officially launched in October at the historic State Theater, 85%, almost $1 million more than raised in 2020, of the goal had already been secured.

Exceeding Expectations

The campaign’s success is no accident. GSP’s approach combined strategic planning, community engagement, and the trust it had built over years of delivering results. Contributions came from large corporations, local governments, foundations, small businesses, and individual donors—a testament to the community’s belief in the Partnership’s mission.

“This campaign is a remarkable story,” Stevens noted. “Mike McDorman, Horton Hobbs and the entire GSP team overcame fierce headwinds outside of their control and rallied the community around a shared vision for Springfield’s future. Their ability to build and maintain trust was absolutely critical to their success.”

The Importance of Relationships and Trust

EXPAND 2029’s success is rooted in the strong relationships GSP has cultivated with its stakeholders. The Partnership’s ability to deliver on its promises over the past five years created a foundation of trust that motivated donors to invest in its vision for the future.

“We’re grateful for the trust the Greater Springfield community has in us,” said Horton Hobbs, Vice President of Economic Development. “Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I’m excited to continue working together with community and business leaders to keep Springfield growing and moving forward.”

These relationships extend beyond financial contributions. Many individuals who were initially skeptical of GSP’s initiatives from the previous campaign became some of its strongest advocates, even stepping into leadership roles during this campaign.

A Bright Future for Springfield

The funds raised through EXPAND 2029 will support economic development and workforce-building initiatives, ensuring Springfield remains a vibrant and competitive community. The campaign’s success demonstrates the power of a shared vision and the importance of trust and collaboration in achieving it.

“What’s truly remarkable about the Greater Springfield Partnership is their ability to deliver on what they promise,” Stevens concluded. “Their leadership, combined with the community’s belief in their mission, made all the difference.”

As Springfield moves forward, the success of EXPAND 2029 serves as an example of the transformative power of trust, relationships, and a clear vision. The Greater Springfield Partnership has set a new standard for what can be achieved when a community comes together to invest in its future.