8 Top Nonprofit Conferences to Attend in 2025
In day-to-day operations, staying connected and keeping up with new marketing trends is crucial for nonprofits. Nonprofit marketing conferences play a vital role in providing these opportunities. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the top conferences for 2024 and 2025, including key dates, notable benefits, and actionable insights to help you make the most of these opportunities. Whether you’re looking to network, discover new strategies, or explore the latest tech for nonprofits, this guide will help you choose the right conferences to elevate your impact.
What Are Nonprofit Conferences?
In day-to-day operations, staying connected and keeping up with new marketing trends is crucial for nonprofits. Nonprofit marketing conferences play a vital role in providing these opportunities. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the top conferences for 2024 and 2025, including key dates, notable benefits, and actionable insights to help you make the most of these opportunities. Whether you’re looking to network, discover new strategies, or explore the latest tech for nonprofits, this guide will help you choose the right conferences to elevate your impact.
What Are Nonprofit Conferences?
Nonprofit conferences are events designed for individuals working in or supporting the nonprofit sector. These conferences cover essential topics such as marketing strategies, fundraising approaches, and other skills necessary for growth and impact. Organized by professional associations, nonprofit organizations, and industry leaders, these conferences attract a diverse group of attendees, including nonprofit professionals, fundraisers, marketers, consultants, and technology providers.
For example, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) hosts the AFP ICON conference, which draws fundraisers and development officers. At the same time, Classy organizes The Collaborative, which focuses on fundraising and technology and brings together nonprofit leaders and tech experts. These gatherings offer unique opportunities for networking, collaboration, and hands-on learning to advance the nonprofit sector.
Why Are Nonprofit Conferences Important?
Nonprofit conferences are essential for staying current with emerging trends, technological advancements like AI, and innovative fundraising methods. These events provide an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills, engage effectively with donors, and implement novel strategies to enhance your organization’s impact.
Attending nonprofit conferences creates opportunities for building long-term partnerships with vendors, consultants, and other organizations. These partnerships provide essential resources and support needed to scale initiatives effectively.
Staying informed about emerging trends, AI tools, and data-driven marketing—is fundamental to nonprofit success. Conferences offer unique opportunities to explore these advancements and maintain a competitive edge.
Benefits of Attending Nonprofit Conferences
Attending nonprofit conferences provides numerous benefits for individuals and organizations, from networking to gaining expert knowledge and exposure to new technologies.
- Access to Expert Knowledge
Nonprofit conferences bring top experts in nonprofit marketing, fundraising, and donor engagement. Attendees can learn directly from experienced professionals who are leading the industry.
- Practical Workshops and Hands-On Sessions
Conference workshops provide valuable opportunities to gain new skills and quickly implement marketing and fundraising strategies. The actionable insights from these sessions can make a significant difference for your nonprofit.
- Networking and Peer Collaboration
Networking opportunities, such as social mixers, roundtables, and one-on-one meetings, foster collaboration among nonprofit professionals. Sharing experiences and ideas with peers allows you to build meaningful relationships that contribute to long-term success.
- Exposure to New Technologies
Many conferences feature exhibitions showcasing technology solutions tailored for nonprofits. These events, from AI-based marketing tools to CRM software, help you discover the latest tech advancements that can streamline operations and boost efficiency.
- Inspiration from Success Stories
Success stories from other nonprofits can be both motivating and educational. Conferences often highlight case studies of organizations that have excelled through innovative approaches, offering valuable lessons you can apply to your own initiatives.
- Ongoing Professional Development
Conferences provide various learning programs, certifications, and on-demand resources that support continuous professional growth even after the event concludes.
The Best Nonprofit Marketing Conferences in 2025
2025 promises to be an exciting year for nonprofits, with many opportunities to explore cutting-edge advancements in fundraising, technology, and community engagement. The latest developments expected in the sector include a deeper focus on responsible AI, data-driven marketing, and innovative storytelling techniques to connect with donors more effectively. These conferences provide an ideal space to stay ahead of these emerging trends and foster meaningful connections. Planning early can help maximize your experience and ensure you don’t miss these invaluable opportunities. Let us know which key Nonprofit Marketing conferences will be held in 2025 and which should be on your calendar.
1. GiveCon 2025:
GiveCon 2025 is a nonprofit marketing conference focusing on fundraising innovation, donor engagement, and digital marketing. Attendees will gain insights on creating impactful campaigns and using technology to drive donor relationships. Ideal for nonprofit leaders and marketers looking to enhance their strategies for 2025.
- Date and Venue: February 23-26, 2025, Orlando, FL
- Theme and Key Focus: Nonprofit fundraising, donor management, and CFRE-accredited workshops.
- Who Should Attend: Fundraisers, donor relations professionals, and nonprofit managers.
2. AFP ICON 2025:
AFP ICON 2025 is a premier nonprofit marketing conference for fundraising professionals. With expert sessions on donor engagement, fundraising strategies, and digital tools, it provides attendees with actionable insights to elevate nonprofit marketing campaigns in 2025.
- Date and Venue: April 27-29, 2025, Seattle, WA
- Theme and Key Focus: Fundraising, event planning, and staff development.
- Who Should Attend: Development officers, fundraising strategists, and nonprofit executives.
3. Nonprofit Storytelling Conference 2025:
The Nonprofit Storytelling Conference 2025 focuses on leveraging storytelling to strengthen donor relationships. Attendees will learn how to create compelling narratives for marketing campaigns and fundraising, boosting nonprofit impact and engagement through powerful, authentic stories.
- Date and Venue: November 2025 (TBA)
- Theme and Key Focus: Storytelling techniques for nonprofit marketing and fundraising.
- Who Should Attend: Marketing teams, content creators, and fundraising professionals.
4. NIO Summit 2025:
NIO Summit 2025 is a nonprofit marketing conference focused on technology and innovation. Sessions on digital strategies, data analytics, and online marketing, it helps nonprofit professionals integrate cutting-edge tools to improve outreach and fundraising effectiveness.
- Date and Venue: September 2025 (TBA)
- Theme and Key Focus: Optimizing fundraising through donor behavior analysis and A/B testing.
- Who Should Attend: Data analysts, fundraising managers, and nonprofit strategists.
5. Good Tech Fest 2025:
Good Tech Fest 2025 brings together nonprofit leaders to explore tech-driven solutions for social impact. This nonprofit marketing conference covers digital marketing, fundraising tools, and tech innovations to help organizations maximize their mission and reach in 2025.
- Date and Venue: Virtual, Global
- Theme and Key Focus: Responsible use of AI, Web3, and emerging technologies.
- Who Should Attend: Technology advocates, digital strategists, nonprofit leaders.
6. Points of Light Conference 2025
Points of Light Conference 2025 connects nonprofit professionals to discuss volunteerism, corporate responsibility, and marketing strategies. Attendees will learn how to improve nonprofit outreach, enhance campaigns, and engage with communities for greater social impact.
- Date and Venue: June 2025, New Orleans
- Theme and Key Focus: Civic engagement, volunteering, and social impact initiatives.
- Who Should Attend: Community engagement coordinators, nonprofit leaders, and volunteer managers.
7. Collaborative 2025 by Classy:
Collaborative 2025 by Classy focuses on creating social impact through digital fundraising and collaboration. This nonprofit marketing conference provides insights into innovative strategies and technologies to improve nonprofit outreach, donor engagement, and mission-driven marketing.
- Date and Venue: May 2025, Chicago, IL
- Theme and Key Focus: Nonprofit marketing and fundraising strategies.
- Who Should Attend: Fundraising professionals, nonprofit executives, and marketing teams.
8. Nonprofit Fundraisers Symposium 2025:
The Nonprofit Fundraisers Symposium 2025 focuses on fundraising and marketing strategies. Attendees will explore the latest techniques in donor engagement, digital marketing, and campaign optimization to enhance fundraising success and nonprofit outreach in 2025.
- Date and Venue: March 20-22, 2025, Washington, D.C.
- Theme and Key Focus: Donor Engagement and Wealth Transfer.
- Who Should Attend: Fundraisers, donor relations teams, nonprofit financial planners.
Comprehensive Table of Nonprofit Conferences in 2025
How to Choose the Right Nonprofit Conferences to Attend
Selecting the best conference depends on your organization’s needs, goals, and budget. Here are some factors to consider when deciding:
- Define Your Organizational Goals
Determine your organization’s marketing and fundraising goals. Align these objectives with the focus areas of specific conferences to maximize the value of attendance.
- Evaluate the Speaker Lineup and Sessions
Review the conference agenda to assess the quality of speakers and sessions. Choose events that feature renowned experts and topics relevant to your organization.
- Consider the Location and Format
Decide whether you prefer virtual or in-person conferences. Consider factors like convenience, travel budget, and the networking opportunities available.
- Budget for Conference Attendance
Planning a budget is crucial. Account for registration fees, travel expenses, and potential early or virtual discounts.
- Review Post-Conference Benefits
Some conferences offer valuable post-event materials, such as recordings or VIP access. Consider these additional resources w
Tips for Making the Most of Your Conference Attendance
Attending a nonprofit conference can be a transformative experience, providing opportunities to network, learn, and gain exposure to new strategies that can benefit your organization. Here are some actionable tips to ensure you make the most out of your conference experience:
- Prepare in Advance: Research the agenda, sessions, and speakers. Familiarizing yourself with the conference layout will help you maximize your time.
- Prioritize Key Sessions: Identify sessions and keynotes that align with your goals. Focus on those that cover high-impact topics or feature thought leaders in the nonprofit sector.
- Maximize Networking Time: Conferences are as much about connecting with peers as they are about learning. Attend networking events, be active on social media, and bring plenty of business cards.
- Follow-up Strategies: Your connections are only as valuable as your follow-ups. To keep the momentum going, make a plan for post-conference engagement, such as personalized emails or LinkedIn connections.
Pre-Conference Planning
Preparation is key to a successful conference experience, so set aside time for these steps before attending:
- Research Speakers and Attendees: Look up speakers and attendees to identify those most relevant to your organization’s goals. Read their latest articles or blog posts to understand their expertise and areas of interest.
- Plan Your Schedule: With many sessions occurring simultaneously, prioritize the most beneficial to your nonprofit’s needs. Some conferences also provide apps to save sessions, set reminders, and even see who else is attending.
- Set Networking Goals: Think about what you want to achieve through networking. Set specific goals, like meeting five new people in your sector or connecting with potential partners, sponsors, or influencers who align with your mission.
Post-Conference Follow-up
Once the conference ends, maintaining connections and implementing new strategies are essential:
- Send Personalized Follow-ups: Within a few days of the conference, send a brief, personalized email or LinkedIn message. To make your message more memorable, mention something specific you discussed.
- Apply New Strategies: Review your notes and identify one or two key takeaways or strategies that can be immediately implemented in your organization. Share these insights with your team to multiply the impact of your attendance.
- Continue Engaging with the Community: Many conferences offer online forums, groups, or newsletters where you can stay connected. Participate in these groups to maintain and grow relationships within the nonprofit community.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Today’s Industry Conferences for Maximum Growth
Attending industry conferences offers invaluable benefits, whether you’re looking to stay updated on the latest trends, expand your professional network, or gain insights from experts shaping your field. By thoughtfully selecting events that align with your goals and actively engaging throughout the experience, you can amplify your growth and make meaningful connections.
Conference organizers typically offer early-bird discounts and group registration options, which can provide significant savings for those ready to dive in. Review each event’s website for key registration deadlines, available workshops, and details on any virtual or hybrid attendance options.
Most importantly, consider prioritizing events that align closely with your business objectives. With an approach tailored to your specific needs, conferences can become a powerful platform for learning, networking, and growth.
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FAQs
1. What is the best nonprofit marketing conference to attend in 2025?
There are several high-impact nonprofit conferences in 2025, such as AFP ICON, GiveCon, and the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference. Each of these offers unique opportunities for learning and networking.
2. How do I prepare for a nonprofit marketing conference?
Preparation is crucial to make the most out of a nonprofit marketing conference. Research the agenda, speakers, and sessions in advance. Set specific networking goals, plan your schedule to prioritize sessions that align with your goals, and familiarize yourself with the conference layout to maximize your time.
3. Are there virtual nonprofit conferences available?
Yes, many nonprofit conferences offer virtual or hybrid attendance options. These are great for those with limited travel budgets or time constraints, providing the same valuable content and opportunities to learn, network, and engage but in a more accessible format.
4. Are nonprofit marketing conferences worth attending?
Absolutely. Nonprofit marketing conferences provide access to expert insights, practical workshops, and networking opportunities that can significantly enhance your nonprofit’s marketing strategies, fundraising techniques, and overall impact. The value gained from connecting with peers, gaining exposure to new technologies, and applying what you learn can greatly benefit your organization’s mission.
5. What topics are covered at nonprofit marketing conferences?
Topics include fundraising strategies, donor engagement, digital marketing, storytelling techniques, community outreach, and technology such as AI for nonprofits.