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Discover how private foundations navigate the investment challenge in this informative session. Hear thought leaders explain the essential strategies for crafting an impactful and efficient investment policy. Key topics include setting objectives, managing spending needs, optimizing asset allocation, rebalancing strategies, selecting managers, and structuring performance reporting. After the presentation, join the discussion to explore how these approaches are implemented by different foundations.
As more foundation leaders and boards choose to undertake diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, some are faced with concern from community members. How might your foundation bring others along on the path you have identified? Learn how to set the stage for the work and how to craft the best message.
Does it ever feel like your life is one never-ending Zoom meeting as you dash from task to task? Do you find yourself unable to make a quick grocery run because community members want just a moment of your time? Does it feel like you’re literally carrying the weight of your community—even on the weekends? If so, then you need a little “me time.” Discover techniques to decompress and strategies to make your work day more manageable. Leave the conference feeling ready to take on the world!
In the face of growing criticism of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs), philanthropy professionals must unite to correct the narrative and protect this valuable tool. The DAF Research Collaborative (DAFRC) recently released the most comprehensive independent study on DAFs, addressing misconceptions that threaten their future. Jeff Williams of the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University will share key findings from the study and discuss their implications for the sector.
As best practices evolve rapidly, achieving operational excellence in today's digital world can be challenging. However, strong operations, effective governance, and strategic execution are essential for building stakeholder trust and maximizing resources for community investment. This session will cover critical aspects of business operations and common risks, including strategy, financial reporting, cybersecurity, internal controls, and governance.
By fostering a culture of learning and development, boards transform into proactive contributors, driving innovation and strategic direction. Join this session and discover essential strategies to cultivate a dynamic board and nurture a robust pipeline of leaders. Discover how to foster effective CEO-board interactions, optimize board meetings, and leverage intentional communication to propel your organization forward.
Succession planning at foundations can feel like an intricate maze. This session gives you the tools to navigate every twist and turn. Learn how to craft seamless transitions, involving key stakeholders from board to leadership. Uncover the perfect timing to ignite your succession strategy and infuse it into your hiring process for long-term success. Plus, we'll tackle the challenge of preserving institutional knowledge amidst staff turnover.
What's stopping your grantees from applying?
How to you build a genuinely inclusive culture?
Discover how to implement trust-based philanthropy practices in your grantmaking efforts. Our panel of peers from Indiana, along with moderator Phil Li (back by popular demand!), will share real-life examples and lessons learned. We’ll explore concrete strategies that streamline processes and promote open, impactful relationships between funders and grantees. From multi-year, unrestricted funding to transparent communication and beyond, discover practical ways to shift from traditional grantmaking to a more trust-based approach.
Mastering data for philanthropic success sounds intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. This session explores the building blocks of sustainable data practices, how-to techniques, aligning your strategies with reality, and leveraging diverse data sets to give context to your efforts. Discover how to turn raw data into a powerful tool for your stakeholders.
Discover how to embrace conflict and grow together as a family foundation.
How can a company move from being a generous corporate citizen to a true driver of meaningful change?
How can philanthropy support local journalism and why is this support so critical?
AI is a powerful tool, but are you ready to use it? You'll learn how AI can integrate into daily foundation operations, including communications and data analysis. Discover the basics of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Dall-E, Gemini, and Bing. Learn how to use AI safely and responsibly. Test your newfound skills through hands-on exercises and discover practical applications tailored for you. This session is for those who are curious and those who are ready to jump. Leave empowered to leverage AI's potential to increase your capacity and transform your work.
Your crash course in how to earn consistent media coverage.
With less than a month before a contentious federal election, tensions may rise regardless of the result. How can philanthropy as a most-trusted institution in America act to shield communities and individuals from harm and polarization? During this session, you will engage in a table exercise that will demonstrate the brain science of polarization. Learn how you or your organization can use that knowledge to build a bridge to civility.