From Nonprofit Fundraising to Franchise Ownership: How One Leader Built a Business of Her Own

I've always admired stories where seasoned professionals pivot their expertise into something deeply personal, and Abby Smayda's journey from nonprofit fundraising to owning barre3 Redondo Beach exemplifies that beautifully. After years cultivating donor relationships at places like the Whitney Museum and Sundance Institute, she stepped back during the pandemic to focus on family. But that break sparked a persistent urge to create her own legacy, leading her to franchise ownership in the boutique fitness world.

What strikes me most is how seamlessly her fundraising skills—identification, cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and retention—translate to nurturing a studio community. It's all about trust and making people feel seen, whether through personalized notes or celebrating member milestones. In a competitive industry, that relational edge fosters loyalty and belonging, turning clients into a thriving ecosystem.

Smayda didn't reinvent the wheel; she chose barre3 for its robust framework, blending low-impact, mindful workouts that empower real transformation. As a former client and instructor, she knew the operational backbone—from real estate guidance to marketing tools—would let her focus on what she excels at: forging connections. Ranking as the top barre franchise in 2026's Franchise 500 underscores why this model supports leaders like her in scaling sustainably.

Now running her studio like a true CEO, Smayda weaves in local partnerships, from grand opening events to collaborations like International Women's Day with lululemon. Success for her isn't just metrics; it's empowering her team, uplifting members, and strengthening community ties. This piece reminds us that transferable skills can fuel entrepreneurial dreams when paired with the right structure.

If you're pondering a career shift toward ownership, this inspiring tale shows how to leverage your strengths. Head over to the original article to get the full scoop on Abby's path.