Temitope Babayemi is an accomplished leader in nonprofit fundraising, grant acquisition, government funding, and capital markets, with a career that spans over three decades across multiple continents. His expertise in resource mobilization, financial strategy, and cross-sector collaboration has positioned him as a pivotal figure in the nonprofit and cultural sectors. A visionary leader, Temitope has raised millions of dollars for organizations worldwide, enabling them to achieve their missions and make tangible impact on their communities.

Temitope’s early career was rooted in the Performing Arts, where he gainedinvaluable experience first, at the Arts Council of Great Britain, now the Arts Council of England. Then, as Deputy Chief Executive of the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) and Head of Operations, he oversaw the administration and management of the prestigious physical structure, MUSON Center, to ensure that facilities and programming met global standards. He worked with the Board to develop and execute an exciting, yet perse Programme of activities that supported the Society’s mission to promote Music and the Performing Arts. Temitope serviced the Arts Programming Committee that produced and promoted the internationally recognized Recital Series (IRS), which featured celebrated classical musicians. His tenure at MUSON set the stage for his lifelong dedication to blending cultural advocacy with sustainable financial strategies.

Building on his success, Temitope founded and managed Different AestheticsArts & Culture Management, an innovative agency that became a driving force in the creative industries. His visionary leadership and collaboration with the National Council for Arts and Culture, led to the establishment of The Artist’s Village, the first community of creative entrepreneurs in West Africa, which became a hub for emerging artists across disciplines. Many of these Artists went on to achieve national and international acclaim, thanks to the infrastructure and mentorship provided under Temitope’s guidance. His work helped lay the foundation for a thriving arts ecosystem in Lagos, Nigeria, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and elevating the region’s artistic presence on the global stage.

Temitope’s tenure as CEO of TopDew Arts Marketing further solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in cultural event management. He directed and promoted national cultural events such as The 2nd National Film Festival, Osun Festival Festival of Yoruba Arts & Culture, and was Sectional Director, Lagos International Black Heritage Festival, enhancing Nigeria’s cultural landscape and international reputation. He also conducted training and capacity-building programs in Arts and Culture Management, collaborating with government bodies like the National Theater of Nigeria and the National Council for Arts & Culture to strengthen capacity in the cultural sector.

In addition to his work in the Arts, Temitope has been a leader in the nonprofit sector, where his fundraising acumen has supported numerous humanitarian initiatives. He led fundraising campaigns for prominent international nonprofits including Doctors Without Borders, Amnesty International, Wounded Warrior Project, Care International, Heifer International and Covenant House, generating substantial financial support for humanitarian initiatives. He successfully designed and implemented strategies that increased donor retention, with over 80% of donors remaining active four years after their initial donation. He directed, trained and mentored teams of over 40 certified fundraising professionals, collectively securing over $1.5 million in incremental donations over a five-year period. Under his leadership, these campaigns achieved unprecedented donor retention rates, with over 80% of donors continuing their contributions years after their initial engagement. Temitope’s innovative approaches to donor engagement have set new standards for sustainability and impact in nonprofit fundraising.

Temitope’s global expertise extends to government and institutional funding, where he has worked closely with policymakers and funding bodies to secure grants and investments for cultural, educational, and humanitarian projects. His ability to navigate complex funding landscapes and align organizational goals with funding priorities has made him a sought-after advisor and strategist. His work has not only strengthened nonprofit organizations but also bridged gaps between public and private sectors to foster collaborative solutions to pressing global challenges.

An accomplished musician and advocate for the Arts, Temitope holds a Master of Philosophy in Performing Arts from the University of Birmingham and a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Drama from the University of Ife, Nigeria. His academic background has informed his holistic approach to fundraising and organizational development, blending creative innovation with analytical rigor. His passion for music continues to be a driving force in his life, and he remains an active participant in initiatives that use the Arts as a tool for community building and social change.

Temitope’s contributions have been recognized both locally and internationally. From mentoring young leaders in the cultural sector to designing strategies that have generated millions in funding for humanitarian causes, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service and excellence. His ability to inspire, lead, and execute with precision has left an indelible mark on every organization he has worked with.

As the Global Head of NFP Funding, Grants, Government Funding, and Capital Markets at Ordior, Temitope brings his vast experience and strategic vision to the team.

He is focused on creating innovative funding models, building partnerships across sectors, and empowering organizations to achieve sustainable growth. His leadership is not only a testament to his expertise but also a reflection of his deep belief in the power of collaboration and community to drive meaningful change.