The merger of Convergent and Resource Development Group (RDG), announced at the International Economic Development Council Leadership Summit, creates a unified organization that now operates as RDG, a Convergent Company. This partnership combines two respected fundraising firms under a shared strategy while preserving the strengths and reputations of both entities.
Under the new structure, RDG will focus specifically on economic development and chamber of commerce markets, executing capital campaigns for multi-year public-private partnerships and workforce development initiatives. Economic development fundraising has become increasingly critical, and clients will benefit from the unique expertise of both organizations, according to Brian Abernathy, General Manager of Convergent.
Clients will continue working with their trusted RDG and Convergent professionals, who now offer extended capacity, enhanced infrastructure, and greater specialization. Resource Development Group brings a proven record of board-led, high-value capital campaigns for economic development entities in large and mid-sized markets, while Convergent contributes nationwide reach across various market sizes and a platform emphasizing research, data management, and disciplined execution.
The merged organization now commands the largest dataset on economic development fundraising campaigns and donor/investors in the United States. This extensive collection reflects decades of campaign data, donor engagement, and investor relations best practices, enabling more informed strategies and real-time campaign execution adjustments. For economic development fundraising specifically, the organization will operate as RDG, a Convergent Company, according to CEO Clint Nessmith.
Convergent plans to expand its philanthropic-focused consulting to support education and nonprofit sectors, including community colleges, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and arts organizations, while maintaining its economic development engagement in current markets. Both the Convergent and RDG brands will remain visible, underscoring trust and continuity in the field. Client benefits include a single integrated team with fundraising expertise and proven success, continued relationships with both RDG and Convergent professionals, increased capacity and specialization, and support for larger, multi-year, board-led capital campaigns.
The organization leverages its Investment Driven Model™ and Organizational Value Proposition™ to effectively translate client outcomes into specific benefits for existing stakeholders and potential donors. More information about the merged organization's services can be found at ConvergentNonprofit.com.
This merger matters for HR vendors because it signals a consolidation trend in fundraising services for economic development, a sector that often partners with HR firms to attract talent and manage workforce initiatives. The combined entity's enhanced data capabilities and specialized focus may lead to more sophisticated campaign strategies that HR vendors can leverage when collaborating on talent attraction and retention projects. Additionally, the expansion into education and nonprofit consulting opens new avenues for partnerships with HR technology providers serving those segments.
