This is a practical session that will cover how to find out useful information about the USA foundation sector generally, as well as how to find information about specific foundations. It will also cover "what to do" and "what not to do" when cultivating and soliciting a USA foundation.

How often do you look at others' success and think ‘well that’s a stroke of luck!'? In this session, we will explore the behaviours that can help you to increase good fortune and ultimately make you luckier in fundraising. We may even include a little bit of science… There is no doubt that blind luck exists, but how you approach your role and your mindset can influence whether you maximise or even spot these opportunities. We will share practical ideas brought to life with real examples of how these behaviours have led to great successes and life-changing discoveries.

The Thomas Report (2004) increasing voluntary giving to Higher Education was the catalyst for universities in the UK to commit to and strengthen their fundraising programmes through professional training and by incentivising donors to see higher education as a legitimate and effective channel for their philanthropy. The report penned by Professor Sir Eric Thomas provided a road map for advancement and philanthropy to flourish in the UK. This session will review 20 years on and what have we learned, and what have we not. Where have we seen successes and challenges? What is the road map for the next 10 years?