Get ready to immerse yourself in a dynamic day full of knowledge-sharing, learning, collaboration, and unparalleled networking opportunities with professionals from nonprofit organizations throughout Western New York.

Agenda Highlights:

• –            3 distinct educational tracks with a nationally-renowned facilitator and expert
• –            Lunch with networking time
• –            Access to vendors who understand the complex needs of nonprofit organizations
• –            Happy Hour

Educational Tracks (Choose 1, Space is Limited!)

1. The Fundraising Flywheel, with Michael Mitchell, Co-Founder and CEO of The Fundraising Academy

The Fundraising Flywheel is a 5-step framework to help donors become an important part of the team and improve your fundraising. The flywheel is simply a way of codifying the fundamentals of fundraising done well, and participants in this track will leave with a concrete plan to help them either launch new fundraising ideas for their organizations or improve upon what they are already doing.

2. Beyond “Just Pick Up the Phone”: A Smarter Approach to Donor Relationships,with Colton Withers, Director of Operations, Consultant and Strategist at the Donor Relations Group

Strong donor relations work is the key to unlocking the potential of fundraising for your organization.  But all too often, there is no manual on how to approach donors, when to do this, or even what touch points are appropriate in certain situations.  Everyone is always told to simply “just pick up the phone!” but it is sometimes easier said than done.  In this track, participants will examine each step of the donor relationship journey through the lens of DRG’s proven concepts and examples.  At the end, participants will come away with new strategies on how to approach their donors and make them truly feel the impact of the work they are supporting.   

3. Turning Awkward Moments into Authentic Board and Volunteer Philanthropy,with David Phillips, Principal at Immersive 1^st

Engaging board members and volunteers in philanthropy can feel awkward, especially when fundraising isn’t their comfort zone. This track explores practical, relationship-driven ways to involve boards and volunteers in meaningful philanthropic activities without forcing them into “the ask.” Participants will learn how to build confidence, clarify roles, and create authentic opportunities for engagement that strengthen donor relationships and advance the mission.