Why Should I Attend?

The Annual Conference brings together grants management professionals from across the nation to discuss important trends and learn new skills. Participants receive resources that they can take back to their organizations and use to improve their grantmaking operations. The professional connections made at the conference provide participants with a peer community that offers advice, problem solving support, ideas, and resources to enhance job performance long after the conference has ended.

Last year's conference attracted more than 415 participants from private, corporate, and community grantmakers.  We expect the 2012 conference to engage even more grantmakers given the increased pressures to do more and do it better with less resources; become even more accountable and transparent to grantseekers and the public; and practically address emerging issues.

The conference has been designed to meet the needs of grantmakers:

• Looking to integrate technology better into your grantmaking? The sessions in the Technology track help participants better understand the technology component of their jobs so that they can optimize their existing programs and make informed choices when considering new technology and products. These sessions are supplemented with a series of six in-depth workshops delivered by the conference exhibitors on their products and services, showcasing how new and existing technology can help meet your organization’s needs. 
• New to the profession? The Core Grants Management track has sessions focused on the technical art of grants management.  Each session is a toolbox for beginners and veterans alike. Presentations and workshops range from the basic aspects of grantmaking to exploring the complex and constantly evolving financial, legal, and IRS issues impacting grants management. 
• Looking to take the next step in your career? The Professional Development track contains sessions ranging from public speaking to supervising staff. These sessions are designed to help participants hone their professional and personal skills to advance their careers and be leaders in the field. 
• Want to keep informed of emerging issues? The sessions in the Emerging Issues track explore how external forces are impacting the profession and how grants managers can lead the charge to effect positive change.