How to Choose a Philanthropy Conference in 2023
Attending a philanthropy conference is an excellent way to network with other nonprofit professionals and learn about the latest trends in the industry. With so many options available, choosing the right conference can be a daunting task. In this blog, we'll share some tips to help you choose the best philanthropy conference for your organization in 2023 based specifically on what you are trying to get out of it.
We're obviously biased on which conference you should attend, as we feel ours is the best, so we will be focusing how how to choose a conference instead of listing the best ones. We encourage you to do your own research based on these guidelines, but of course, if you want to know more about our annual philanthropy conference in October, you can read more about it, be notified when registration opens, and even register depending on what time of year you area reading this! Let's dig into the steps for evaluation:
Set Your Goals and Objectives Before selecting a conference, you should first determine your organization's goals and objectives. What specific skills, knowledge, or connections do you want to gain from the conference? Identifying these goals and objectives will help you evaluate potential conferences and ensure that the conference aligns with your organization's mission and priorities.
Research Conference Options There are a lot of philanthropy conferences out there, so it's essential to research your options thoroughly. Look for conferences that focus on your organization's specific area of interest, such as fundraising, donor relations, or program development, or you can even look at specific fields like healthcare, education, or human services. You can also check out reviews and recommendations from other nonprofit professionals to get an idea of which conferences are worth attending. Word of mouth is an excellent way to get honest reviews, so ask your peers!
Check the Conference Schedule Before committing to a conference, make sure to review the schedule carefully. Check for keynote speakers, panels, and breakout sessions that align with your goals and objectives. It's also essential to ensure that the conference schedule doesn't conflict with other critical events or deadlines for your organization. Some organizations will even let you register for parts of the conference or specific days, so check to see what those options entail.
Evaluate Costs and Budget Conferences can be expensive, so it's crucial to evaluate costs and budget accordingly. Consider registration fees, travel, and accommodation costs as one full package. One conference might appear cheaper than another, but if it's at an expensive hotel in an expensive city, the hidden total costs can add up. Make sure to factor in any potential fundraising opportunities that the conference may present, such as networking with potential donors or sponsors to help offset some of the long term costs.
Plan Your Participation Once you've selected a conference, it's time to plan your participation. Review the conference agenda and select the sessions you want to attend. Make sure to leave plenty of time for networking, meeting new people, and exploring the exhibit hall. You may also want to consider bringing a team of colleagues to maximize the value of the conference. Are you looking for a consulting firm? Outsourced marketing? Information on how to launch a campaign? Having a game plan in mind with how you will participate can help optimize your value. Also, check to see if the conference offers continuing education credits in your field! If you are a fundraiser, ask if the sessions are CFRE certified before making that final call.
Attending a philanthropy conference can be a valuable investment for your organization. By walking through these steps, you can select the best conference for your organization and get the most out of your experience. With careful planning and preparation, your organization will be on its way to achieving its goals and objectives in 2023. And of course, if you want more information on our annual October conference, you can check the details to learn more!
