We have too many things to do, and there's no end in sight. As fundraisers in higher education, we are all navigating complex issues every day. The daily stream of news, events, and pressure related to resource development in higher education is a lot to manage. Finding and staying in a productive zone can be daunting, and burnout is often nipping at our heels. This will be an interactive session that creates space for sharing best practices for laser focus in a complex and over-scheduled world. *Separate registration required

Are you always looking for a more efficient way to fundraise? Join Capilano University as we share our successes in transforming the traditional fundraising model into an impactful and intimate experience. In this session, you'll discover the power of just one hour in maximizing engagement and donor potential by utilizing a small number of table hosts rather than relying on securing large event attendance. Learn from our Marketing & Digital Communication team as they use brand storytelling to strengthen connection, reputation, and impact, while reflecting the values of your institution. Gain tips on how to craft a compelling impact story video that resonates deeply with your audience, making your cause irresistible. Plus, build a sponsorship strategy to offset 100% of the event’s expense. Leave with actionable insights and practical tips to elevate your fundraising efforts. ‘We Believe’ our unique breakfast event model will inspire ideas and unlock new opportunities for your organization. CapU was recognized with a CASE Grand Gold Circle of Excellence Award for their We Believe fundraising video.

Have you ever had a great idea to Advance the Mission of your School, only to have it limited by inaccessible resources? The best ideas in academic programming, athletic offerings, residential life experiences, issues around DEI, educational technology, risk-management, and student support often come with price tags that put them out of reach. Explore how to deepen your impact as a leader through practical approaches to securing the human and financial resources needed, "one conversation at a time".

In this session, we will explore a real-world case study that demonstrates how collaboration, strategic planning, and effective stakeholder engagement can drive revenue growth and transform an organization. Imagine starting at a new organization raising just $600,000 a year and transforming it to a consistent $4 million a year in revenue after just 18 months. We’ll explore the practical strategies that fueled our growth and how to create a collaborative relationship with Faculty and Advancement leadership. Join us to learn more about this journey where people power and relationships led to dramatic financial transformation!

Join us as we explore the evolution of principal gift (PG) impact reporting at the University of Calgary. This session will provide insights into our phased approach to improving donor communication, enhancing financial transparency, and strengthening bespoke reporting. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how strategic changes in stewardship practices can lead to more meaningful donor engagement and operational efficiencies.

In this dynamic and insightful presentation, we delve into the art and science of securing transformative first-time major gifts for non-profit organizations. Drawing from our extensive experience in the field, my partner and I share proven strategies, compelling stories, and expert advice on cultivating and inspiring donors to make significant contributions. We explore the psychology behind major giving, discuss effective donor engagement techniques, and provide practical tools for building lasting relationships with potential major donors. Our collaborative approach combines my expertise in donor psychology and storytelling with my partner's strengths in strategic planning and implementation. Together, we offer a comprehensive view of the major gift process, from initial prospect identification to successful solicitation and stewardship. Throughout the presentation, we share real-world examples of successful first-time major gifts, analyzing the key factors that led to these philanthropic milestones. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable insights, innovative approaches, and renewed inspiration to elevate their organization's major gift program.

Take your annual giving day to the next level by enhancing the ways you follow up with your generous donors. Show them their impact and build those relationships with meaningful stewardship. In this session, you’ll receive guidance for creating a comprehensive stewardship plan, audit your giving day thank yous, streamline your stewardship process, report back on your giving day success and gain templates you can adapt for your institution. This session will also highlight fun events to build connections with donors as well as your giving day partners.

Join four fundraisers from the University of Oregon for an exciting conversation about working the mid-level! Topics covered will include donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies; moving donors along the pipeline from annual giving to major gifts; and navigating career growth as a frontline fundraiser. Bring your questions and be ready for some real talk!

Learn how advancement services at the University of Manitoba became the catalyst for a data-driven transformation and a hub of innovation. This journey began with a bold statement: "to become a data-driven organization." By implementing direct changes, advancement services evolved from a small service unit into a dynamic solutions provider. This transformation rapidly expanded to adjacent business units and, within just four years, reached central departments and faculties. Discover the best practices and strategies that fueled this rapid evolution, and learn how to apply these principles to foster innovation and data-driven decision-making in your own organization. Join us for an inspiring session filled with actionable insights and proven success stories.