The Nonprofit Fundraising Summit will be held in Corvallis on Friday, February 23, 2024. It will feature two tracks for fundraisers representing a variety of development programs, budgets, and experience levels: 

• Track A is ideal for nonprofits raising under $2M annually and for individuals with one to three years of fundraising experience. This track will focus on the building blocks of fundraising and tangible steps for creating effective fundraising campaigns and thriving monthly giving programs.  
• Track B is designed for attendees who plan to raise $2M or more annually and for individuals with seven to 10 years of fundraising experience. This is ideal for those who want to learn or build on more advanced fundraising techniques in areas like planned giving programs and major donor stewardship. 

This Summit is an educational event and an opportunity to connect with other fundraising professionals. Come network, share experiences, and learn from knowledgeable experts in the sector. After the Summit, attendees and NAO Members are invited to join us for the Mid-Valley Nonprofit Salon happy hour. We look forward to welcoming you to Corvallis for this day of learning and connection! 

[accordion title="Agenda"]

[accordion-item title="Doors Open" info="8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m."]

Check-in at the registration table, enjoy a continental breakfast, and network with new and familiar colleagues.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Welcome and Opening Plenary" info="9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. "]

The Evolving Art of Fundraising: A Journey Through 2023's Fundraising Trends and Glimpses into 2024 

Facilitated by: Chris Quaka
Panelists: Grady Goodall, Elena Fracchia, Catrina Mathewson, and Jessica McDonald
Location: Cascade Ballroom

This engaging and intimate session will commence our day of learning as we explore the intricacies of recent fundraising trends. Join us for a panel discussion with fundraisers representing a variety of development operations, each of them ready to share their experiences and reflect on the overarching themes witnessed throughout 2023. Set against the backdrop of Oregon's philanthropic ecosystem, our panelists will also draw connections to national trends, providing a comprehensive overview of the ever-evolving landscape.  

Our panelists will not only reflect on the challenges and triumphs of their individual fundraising journeys but will also offer insights into the broader philanthropic community. As we explore the similarities and differences in fundraising experiences, our panel will discuss the shifts that defined the year, providing attendees with a unique perspective on the diverse approaches employed across organizations. Attendees can expect a candid exploration of what worked, what posed challenges, and, most importantly, what valuable lessons were learned.  

Looking ahead, our panelists will share their visions for 2024, offering a glimpse into the emerging trends and strategies that will shape the fundraising landscape. From technological innovations to evolving donor preferences, we will collectively anticipate the opportunities and obstacles awaiting the nonprofit sector.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Break" info="10:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. "]

Refill your coffee and make your way to the next breakout session.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Breakout Session 1" info="10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. "]

Track A: Creating & Growing Monthly Giving Programs
Presented by: Dianne Alves
Location: Cascade Ballroom

Monthly giving programs can provide your organization with a steady and reliable contributed income stream. They can also be an effective way to establish and build lasting donor relationships. This session will share best practices for creating a giving program that will help you reach your fundraising goals. With those foundational elements in mind, we’ll cover how to maintain and expand your giving program to help you get to that next level.

Come learn useful strategies for communicating the value of recurring gifts to donors, fostering long-term relationships, and maximizing the benefit of sustained financial support. Whether you’re just getting started with developing a monthly giving program or looking for new ways to grow your existing program, this session has something for you. 

Track B: Unlock the Power of Corporate Partnership: Crafting Tailored Stewardship for Stronger Impact
Presented by: Elena Fracchia
Location: Willamette Room

In the evolving landscape of nonprofit fundraising, the cultivation and stewardship of corporate relationships are more crucial than ever. Businesses seeking to align their brands with meaningful causes present nonprofits with a unique opportunity to forge lasting partnerships that benefit both parties. This session will equip nonprofit professionals with the tools and insights necessary to effectively steward their corporate funders and sponsors, transforming these relationships into powerful engines for mutual growth and impact.

Participants will explore a comprehensive approach to corporate stewardship, from initial engagement and understanding corporate objectives to delivering tailored impact reports and recognizing contributions in ways that resonate with business partners. This session will provide practical strategies for maintaining open lines of communication, aligning organizational needs with corporate social responsibility goals, and creating compelling narratives that highlight the impact of corporate support.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Lunch" info="11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. "]

Join us for lunch in the main ballroom!

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Breakout Session 2" info="12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. "]

Track A: Effective Fundraising Campaigns
Presented by: Jennifer Monegan
Location: Cascade Ballroom

Join us for a discussion on how to amplify your nonprofit’s fundraising campaigns and ensure your efforts translate into meaningful, sustainable support for your mission. We’ll cover the crucial elements of crafting compelling appeal narratives that resonate with donors. We’ll explore how to build and leverage a social media audience to expand your reach and influence. We’ll also discuss strategies for planning successful fundraising events with a strong ROI. Participants will leave this session equipped with actionable insights and a renewed perspective on fundraising, ready to implement strategies that make a lasting impact on your nonprofit’s financial health.

Track B: Endowment Building and Legacy Giving
Presented by: Grady Goodall
Location: Willamette Room

This session will offer a roadmap for nonprofits looking to build a culture of giving with lasting impacts. Learn the fundamental principles of endowment management and understand how these perpetual assets can provide a stable foundation for your organization and future generations. Explore the benefits of endowments, including financial stability, enhanced programmatic impact, and the ability to weather economic fluctuations. Gain actionable insights into crafting and implementing effective endowment fundraising strategies, attracting donors who are passionate about ensuring the longevity of your mission.

We’ll also delve into the art of legacy giving and highlight ways to engage donors in meaningful conversations. Explore legacy giving vehicles, from planned bequests to charitable trusts, and understand how to tailor these options to align with donors’ philanthropic goals.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Break" info="1:45 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. "]

Refill your coffee and make your way to the next breakout session.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="Breakout Session 3" info="2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. "]

Track A: Engaging Reluctant Board Members in Fundraising
Presented by: Lily McFadden
Location: Cascade Ballroom

Understanding that board members are a pivotal resource for nonprofit organizations, this session delves into practical strategies for fostering active, enthusiastic board participation in fundraising. This session emphasizes the importance of clear communication, aligning board members' unique strengths with organizational goals, and creating a culture of philanthropy within the board. Participants will learn positive and productive ways to engage board members in contributing to development activities. We'll also cover changing a board’s mindset around fundraising, and practical techniques for utilizing the strengths of your volunteer leaders. 

Track B: Annual Giving: Realities, Myths, and How to Raise More Money
Presented by: Julie Hambuchen
Location: Willamette Room

In this session, we’ll cover the challenging realities we face in our annual giving programs, the myths that hold us back, and what we can do to raise more money for the causes we care about.  We’ll explore how our own mindsets can lay the foundation for annual giving success, and dive into donor behavior and tactics that work. Whether you're looking to refine your current practices or implement new ideas, this session will provide insights to help you achieve and exceed your fundraising goals.

[/accordion-item]

[accordion-item title="On-site Reception & Salon" info="3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "]

After the Summit, registered attendees and NAO Members are invited to join us in the Guistina Living Room and Johnson Lounge and Library for the Mid-Valley Nonprofit Salon. Members who aren’t attending the Nonprofit Fundraising Summit can register for the Salon in the Member Dashboard. Summit attendees do not need to register separately.

[/accordion-item]

[/accordion]

NAO is committed to creating inclusive learning environments and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. For accommodation requests, please contact us at [email protected]. Advanced notice of at least 10 days is appreciated.

PARKING

Parking permits are required on campus Monday-Friday 7am – 5pm. Permits can be purchased ahead of time online or at one of the kiosks on site. There is a parking garage (Parking Zone B) located next to the CH2M Hill Alumni Center for your convenience. You can find more information here: Visitors | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

COST

Track A: $100 for NAO Members, $175 for Nonmembers
Track B: $225 for NAO Members, $300 for Nonmembers
 

[sponsors title="Sponsors" description="Thank you to the following sponsors for supporting this Summit!"]                              [/sponsors]