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Canada’s conference with a heart!
Wednesday, May 27
 

7:30am EDT

Registration
Wednesday May 27, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am EDT

Wednesday May 27, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am EDT

8:00am EDT

Breakfast
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
  Networking Event - included

8:30am EDT

LL1: Say It Like You Mean It: The Art & Science of Storytelling, Leadership, and Fundraising Result | LeaderLab Part 1 | generously sponsored by DonorPerfect
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
Fundraising isn’t failing—relevance is.Too often, organizations try to generate urgency, confidence, and results with stories that feel outdated, over-polished, or disconnected from what donors actually want to understand.This full-day, highly interactive LeaderLab is designed for fundraising and nonprofit leaders who want to move beyond “better messaging” and into strategic clarity.The...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Collins

Jennifer Collins

Director, Philanthropic Operations, Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
After graduating from Queen’s University (BA in English Literature and an Honours BA in Classical Studies), Jennifer began her career at the Anglican Diocese of Toronto before moving to the Canadian Film Centre as the Managing Director of the Worldwide Short Film Festival.

For the next ten years, Jennifer worked for the Rouge Valley Health System Foundation, raising money for two hospital sites. Projects that kept her busy included managing donor recognition, the direct response program and staff lottery. Jennifer is also proud to have helped raise... Read More →
avatar for Janine Foote

Janine Foote

Fund Development & Engagement Manager, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
Janine Foote brings over a decade of fundraising experience—and a lifelong instinct for storytelling—to her work as the Manager of Fund Development & Engagement with 880 CHED Santas Anonymous.

Janine believes great storytelling isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about action. Known for her ability to connect quickly and authentically with donors, she has a track record of turning conversations into meaningful support—including securing a $100,000 gift through the... Read More →
avatar for Celeste Blackmore

Celeste Blackmore

National Director, Corporate Partnerships, StorageVault Canada
Celeste Blackmore is the National Director of Partnerships and Media at StorageVault, Canada’s leading storage provider with 251 locations across Canada and a recipient of the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Women Lead Here award. StorageVault operates under multiple brands... Read More →
avatar for Emma Lewzey

Emma Lewzey

Founder and Lead Consultant, Blue Sky Philanthropy
Emma Lewzey, CFRE, is a strategic advisor and campaign specialist with 25+ years of nonprofit fundraising and leadership experience. She launched her major gift career in 2002, managing her first capital campaign for Canada's largest 2SLGBTQ+ Community Centre.

Since then, Emma has... Read More →
avatar for Owen Charters

Owen Charters

President & CEO, Pathways to Education
Owen Charters is CEO of Pathways to Education Canada, which helps youth overcome barriers and graduate from high school. An accomplished nonprofit executive, he has previously led national organizations, including BGC Canada and CanadaHelps. He serves on several boards and advisory... Read More →
Storytelling Fundraising Workbook 2026 pdf
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  LeaderLab

8:30am EDT

LL2: From Awareness to Asking: Building an Integrated Digital Fundraising Program | LeaderLab Part 1
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
This LeaderLab is designed to help participants map or rebuild an integrated digital fundraising program end-to-end. Rather than focusing on isolated tactics, the session will explore how audience understanding, awareness, supporter acquisition, stewardship, fundraising, and future-proofing work together as part of a single connected system.Over four practical working sessions, participants will...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Zach Zimmel

Zach Zimmel

CEO, Principles
Zach Zimmel is CEO and lead strategist at Principles, a Toronto-based social-impact strategy and creative agency. He works with charities across North America to launch narrative change strategies and strengthen digital fundraising/engagement by building repeatable systems: audience... Read More →
avatar for Jill Oba-McGrath

Jill Oba-McGrath

Director of Communications and Fund Development, Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Jill Oba-McGrath is a communications and fund development leader working at the intersection of social justice and philanthropy. She currently serves as Director of Communications and Fund Development at Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. For over a decade, Jill has led campaigns... Read More →
avatar for Leigh Sandison

Leigh Sandison

Managing Director, Real Path
Leigh Sandison started her career in fundraising in the UK - first in corporate partnerships, then product development and innovation in mass market fundraising. She then moved to the agency side, focusing on strategy and insight-led experience design for Fortune 500 companies. Drawing... Read More →
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Shairoze Walji

Shairoze Walji

Director of Individual Giving, UNICEF Canada
Shairoze Walji works in fundraising and communications, driving multi-channel growth. Her work explores storytelling, donor relationships and how to move beyond crisis-driven engagement to build more meaningful connections. She studied at Wilfrid Laurier University and The New School... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  LeaderLab

8:30am EDT

LL3: Legacy Giving for the Rest of Us | LeaderLab Part 1 | generously sponsored by epilogue
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Toronto Room
How to create a comprehensive and inspiring Legacy Donor Journey - no matter your charity's size.This exclusive LeaderLab is designed for nonprofits (including small and mid-sized organizations) seeking to grow legacy giving in a way that's realistic, values-driven, and achievable.Led by Tess Conrad with contributions by leading legacy fundraising voices, including Chantelle Ohrling, Aimée...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tess Conrad, CFRE

Tess Conrad, CFRE

Principal Consultant, Full Potential Fundraising
Tess is a seasoned fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience and has held her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) since 2021. She also holds a Certificate in Fundraising Management from BCIT and a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU. She’s a high-achiever with... Read More →
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
avatar for Lynne Boardman

Lynne Boardman

Managing Director, Harvey McKinnon Associates
Lynne Boardman has been working in fundraising for 20 years in Canada and the UK. She's worked with wonderful organizations representing a myriad of causes, from overseas development to health care, environmental causes, human rights, homelessness organizations, and Indigenous education... Read More →
avatar for Aimée Lindenberger

Aimée Lindenberger

Senior Consultant, Global Philanthropic Canada
Aimée Lindenberger is the founder of Refocus Fundraising and a Senior Consultant at Global Philanthropic Canada. A gifted writer and speaker, Aimée authored How to Talk About Legacy Giving and How to Engage Potential Legacy Donors. She brings over 20 years of marketing and communications experience, a tender heart, an insightful mind, and a drive to make meaningful connections with supporters in every organization she collaborates with.As one of the first in the world to complete a certificate in Philanthropic... Read More →
avatar for Paul Nazareth

Paul Nazareth

Chief Connector, Connectworking
Paul has worked in Canada’s philanthropic sector for over 25 years. Previously an instructor of philanthropic tax, financial, estate and gift planning with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP), he was also Vice President at Canada’s largest charity, CanadaHelps, during... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Toronto Room
  LeaderLab

8:30am EDT

LL4: YES WE CAN: Standing Strong in the Face of Disruption | LeaderLab Part 1
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Victoria Room
Our world has changed … drastically!  There’s never been a more important time to face disruption head on. Not to beat it down, but to understand it, work with it, leverage it to our advantage and those we serve.Today’s fundraisers, directors, or board members are all being tested by, scarce resources, ever-rising expectations, challenging people and an uncertain future. In the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tania Little

Tania Little

Interim CEO, National Gallery of Canada Foundation
Tania Little is an accomplished executive with CEO and C-suite experience and 30 years of experience advancing mission, revenue, and systems change across Canada’s social-impact sector. She has generated more than $750M in philanthropic and in-kind support through major gifts, corporate... Read More →
avatar for Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

CEO, Leaders of Tomorrow Canada Foundation // Fondation des leaders de demain Canada
Tony is a passionate enthusiast, formerly an international fundraising consultant, now turned CEO of a start-up NPO facing the same challenges as many other leaders in the social impact sector. His background includes success as a strategist, author, speaker and executive coach who... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Co-Founder, Recast Philanthropy
Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P™ (she/her/elle) is a nationally recognized fundraising executive and thought leader with nearly 15 years of experience leading high-performing teams and securing transformative philanthropic investments for organizations including Toronto Metropolitan... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Victoria Room
  LeaderLab

10:30am EDT

Nutrition and Networking
Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Ottawa Room

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Ottawa Room
  Networking Event - included

11:00am EDT

LL1: Say It Like You Mean It: The Art & Science of Storytelling, Leadership, and Fundraising Result | LeaderLab Part 2 | generously sponsored by DonorPerfect
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
This full-day LeaderLab is a hands-on, highly interactive working session designed for fundraising and nonprofit leaders who want to move beyond “better messaging” and into strategic clarity.Curated and facilitated by Angel Benedict, the day blends teaching, reflection, and real-world application — with insights from frontline fundraisers, communications leaders, and donors brought into the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for Janine Foote

Janine Foote

Fund Development & Engagement Manager, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
Janine Foote brings over a decade of fundraising experience—and a lifelong instinct for storytelling—to her work as the Manager of Fund Development & Engagement with 880 CHED Santas Anonymous.

Janine believes great storytelling isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about action. Known for her ability to connect quickly and authentically with donors, she has a track record of turning conversations into meaningful support—including securing a $100,000 gift through the... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Collins

Jennifer Collins

Director, Philanthropic Operations, Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
After graduating from Queen’s University (BA in English Literature and an Honours BA in Classical Studies), Jennifer began her career at the Anglican Diocese of Toronto before moving to the Canadian Film Centre as the Managing Director of the Worldwide Short Film Festival.

For the next ten years, Jennifer worked for the Rouge Valley Health System Foundation, raising money for two hospital sites. Projects that kept her busy included managing donor recognition, the direct response program and staff lottery. Jennifer is also proud to have helped raise... Read More →
avatar for Celeste Blackmore

Celeste Blackmore

National Director, Corporate Partnerships, StorageVault Canada
Celeste Blackmore is the National Director of Partnerships and Media at StorageVault, Canada’s leading storage provider with 251 locations across Canada and a recipient of the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Women Lead Here award. StorageVault operates under multiple brands... Read More →
avatar for Owen Charters

Owen Charters

President & CEO, Pathways to Education
Owen Charters is CEO of Pathways to Education Canada, which helps youth overcome barriers and graduate from high school. An accomplished nonprofit executive, he has previously led national organizations, including BGC Canada and CanadaHelps. He serves on several boards and advisory... Read More →
Storytelling Fundraising Workbook 2026 pdf
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  LeaderLab

11:00am EDT

LL2: From Awareness to Asking: Building an Integrated Digital Fundraising Program | LeaderLab Part 2
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
This LeaderLab is designed to help participants map or rebuild an integrated digital fundraising program end-to-end. Rather than focusing on isolated tactics, the session will explore how audience understanding, awareness, supporter acquisition, stewardship, fundraising, and future-proofing work together as part of a single connected system.Over four practical working sessions, participants will...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Zach Zimmel

Zach Zimmel

CEO, Principles
Zach Zimmel is CEO and lead strategist at Principles, a Toronto-based social-impact strategy and creative agency. He works with charities across North America to launch narrative change strategies and strengthen digital fundraising/engagement by building repeatable systems: audience... Read More →
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Jill Oba-McGrath

Jill Oba-McGrath

Director of Communications and Fund Development, Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Jill Oba-McGrath is a communications and fund development leader working at the intersection of social justice and philanthropy. She currently serves as Director of Communications and Fund Development at Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. For over a decade, Jill has led campaigns... Read More →
avatar for Leigh Sandison

Leigh Sandison

Managing Director, Real Path
Leigh Sandison started her career in fundraising in the UK - first in corporate partnerships, then product development and innovation in mass market fundraising. She then moved to the agency side, focusing on strategy and insight-led experience design for Fortune 500 companies. Drawing... Read More →
avatar for Shairoze Walji

Shairoze Walji

Director of Individual Giving, UNICEF Canada
Shairoze Walji works in fundraising and communications, driving multi-channel growth. Her work explores storytelling, donor relationships and how to move beyond crisis-driven engagement to build more meaningful connections. She studied at Wilfrid Laurier University and The New School... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  LeaderLab

11:00am EDT

LL3: Legacy Giving for the Rest of Us | LeaderLab Part 2 | generously sponsored by epilogue
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Toronto Room
How to create a comprehensive and inspiring Legacy Donor Journey - no matter your charity's size.This exclusive LeaderLab is designed for nonprofits (including small and mid-sized organizations) seeking to grow legacy giving in a way that's realistic, values-driven, and achievable.Led by Tess Conrad with contributions by leading legacy fundraising voices, including Chantelle Ohrling, Aimée...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tess Conrad, CFRE

Tess Conrad, CFRE

Principal Consultant, Full Potential Fundraising
Tess is a seasoned fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience and has held her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) since 2021. She also holds a Certificate in Fundraising Management from BCIT and a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU. She’s a high-achiever with... Read More →
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
avatar for Lynne Boardman

Lynne Boardman

Managing Director, Harvey McKinnon Associates
Lynne Boardman has been working in fundraising for 20 years in Canada and the UK. She's worked with wonderful organizations representing a myriad of causes, from overseas development to health care, environmental causes, human rights, homelessness organizations, and Indigenous education... Read More →
avatar for Aimée Lindenberger

Aimée Lindenberger

Senior Consultant, Global Philanthropic Canada
Aimée Lindenberger is the founder of Refocus Fundraising and a Senior Consultant at Global Philanthropic Canada. A gifted writer and speaker, Aimée authored How to Talk About Legacy Giving and How to Engage Potential Legacy Donors. She brings over 20 years of marketing and communications experience, a tender heart, an insightful mind, and a drive to make meaningful connections with supporters in every organization she collaborates with.As one of the first in the world to complete a certificate in Philanthropic... Read More →
avatar for Paul Nazareth

Paul Nazareth

Chief Connector, Connectworking
Paul has worked in Canada’s philanthropic sector for over 25 years. Previously an instructor of philanthropic tax, financial, estate and gift planning with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP), he was also Vice President at Canada’s largest charity, CanadaHelps, during... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Toronto Room
  LeaderLab

11:00am EDT

LL4: YES WE CAN: Standing Strong in the Face of Disruption | LeaderLab Part 2
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Victoria Room
Our world has changed … drastically!  There’s never been a more important time to face disruption head on. Not to beat it down, but to understand it, work with it, leverage it to our advantage and those we serve.Today’s fundraisers, directors, or board members are all being tested by, scarce resources, ever-rising expectations, challenging people and an uncertain future. In the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tania Little

Tania Little

Interim CEO, National Gallery of Canada Foundation
Tania Little is an accomplished executive with CEO and C-suite experience and 30 years of experience advancing mission, revenue, and systems change across Canada’s social-impact sector. She has generated more than $750M in philanthropic and in-kind support through major gifts, corporate... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Co-Founder, Recast Philanthropy
Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P™ (she/her/elle) is a nationally recognized fundraising executive and thought leader with nearly 15 years of experience leading high-performing teams and securing transformative philanthropic investments for organizations including Toronto Metropolitan... Read More →
avatar for Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

CEO, Leaders of Tomorrow Canada Foundation // Fondation des leaders de demain Canada
Tony is a passionate enthusiast, formerly an international fundraising consultant, now turned CEO of a start-up NPO facing the same challenges as many other leaders in the social impact sector. His background includes success as a strategist, author, speaker and executive coach who... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Victoria Room
  LeaderLab

12:30pm EDT

Lunch
Wednesday May 27, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
A delicious lunch break.
Wednesday May 27, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
  Networking Event - included

1:30pm EDT

LL1: Say It Like You Mean It: The Art & Science of Storytelling, Leadership, and Fundraising Result | LeaderLab Part 3 | generously sponsored by DonorPerfect
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
This full-day LeaderLab is a hands-on, highly interactive working session designed for fundraising and nonprofit leaders who want to move beyond “better messaging” and into strategic clarity.Curated and facilitated by Angel Benedict, the day blends teaching, reflection, and real-world application — with insights from frontline fundraisers, communications leaders, and donors brought into the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for Janine Foote

Janine Foote

Fund Development & Engagement Manager, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
Janine Foote brings over a decade of fundraising experience—and a lifelong instinct for storytelling—to her work as the Manager of Fund Development & Engagement with 880 CHED Santas Anonymous.

Janine believes great storytelling isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about action. Known for her ability to connect quickly and authentically with donors, she has a track record of turning conversations into meaningful support—including securing a $100,000 gift through the... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Collins

Jennifer Collins

Director, Philanthropic Operations, Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
After graduating from Queen’s University (BA in English Literature and an Honours BA in Classical Studies), Jennifer began her career at the Anglican Diocese of Toronto before moving to the Canadian Film Centre as the Managing Director of the Worldwide Short Film Festival.

For the next ten years, Jennifer worked for the Rouge Valley Health System Foundation, raising money for two hospital sites. Projects that kept her busy included managing donor recognition, the direct response program and staff lottery. Jennifer is also proud to have helped raise... Read More →
avatar for Celeste Blackmore

Celeste Blackmore

National Director, Corporate Partnerships, StorageVault Canada
Celeste Blackmore is the National Director of Partnerships and Media at StorageVault, Canada’s leading storage provider with 251 locations across Canada and a recipient of the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Women Lead Here award. StorageVault operates under multiple brands... Read More →
avatar for Owen Charters

Owen Charters

President & CEO, Pathways to Education
Owen Charters is CEO of Pathways to Education Canada, which helps youth overcome barriers and graduate from high school. An accomplished nonprofit executive, he has previously led national organizations, including BGC Canada and CanadaHelps. He serves on several boards and advisory... Read More →
Storytelling Fundraising Workbook 2026 pdf
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  LeaderLab

1:30pm EDT

LL2: From Awareness to Asking: Building an Integrated Digital Fundraising Program | LeaderLab Part 3
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
This LeaderLab is designed to help participants map or rebuild an integrated digital fundraising program end-to-end. Rather than focusing on isolated tactics, the session will explore how audience understanding, awareness, supporter acquisition, stewardship, fundraising, and future-proofing work together as part of a single connected system.Over four practical working sessions, participants will...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Zach Zimmel

Zach Zimmel

CEO, Principles
Zach Zimmel is CEO and lead strategist at Principles, a Toronto-based social-impact strategy and creative agency. He works with charities across North America to launch narrative change strategies and strengthen digital fundraising/engagement by building repeatable systems: audience... Read More →
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Jill Oba-McGrath

Jill Oba-McGrath

Director of Communications and Fund Development, Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Jill Oba-McGrath is a communications and fund development leader working at the intersection of social justice and philanthropy. She currently serves as Director of Communications and Fund Development at Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. For over a decade, Jill has led campaigns... Read More →
avatar for Leigh Sandison

Leigh Sandison

Managing Director, Real Path
Leigh Sandison started her career in fundraising in the UK - first in corporate partnerships, then product development and innovation in mass market fundraising. She then moved to the agency side, focusing on strategy and insight-led experience design for Fortune 500 companies. Drawing... Read More →
avatar for Shairoze Walji

Shairoze Walji

Director of Individual Giving, UNICEF Canada
Shairoze Walji works in fundraising and communications, driving multi-channel growth. Her work explores storytelling, donor relationships and how to move beyond crisis-driven engagement to build more meaningful connections. She studied at Wilfrid Laurier University and The New School... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  LeaderLab

1:30pm EDT

LL3: Legacy Giving for the Rest of Us | LeaderLab Part 3 | generously sponsored by epilogue
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
How to create a comprehensive and inspiring Legacy Donor Journey - no matter your charity's size.This exclusive LeaderLab is designed for nonprofits (including small and mid-sized organizations) seeking to grow legacy giving in a way that's realistic, values-driven, and achievable.Led by Tess Conrad with contributions by leading legacy fundraising voices, including Chantelle Ohrling, Aimée...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tess Conrad, CFRE

Tess Conrad, CFRE

Principal Consultant, Full Potential Fundraising
Tess is a seasoned fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience and has held her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) since 2021. She also holds a Certificate in Fundraising Management from BCIT and a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU. She’s a high-achiever with... Read More →
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
avatar for Lynne Boardman

Lynne Boardman

Managing Director, Harvey McKinnon Associates
Lynne Boardman has been working in fundraising for 20 years in Canada and the UK. She's worked with wonderful organizations representing a myriad of causes, from overseas development to health care, environmental causes, human rights, homelessness organizations, and Indigenous education... Read More →
avatar for Aimée Lindenberger

Aimée Lindenberger

Senior Consultant, Global Philanthropic Canada
Aimée Lindenberger is the founder of Refocus Fundraising and a Senior Consultant at Global Philanthropic Canada. A gifted writer and speaker, Aimée authored How to Talk About Legacy Giving and How to Engage Potential Legacy Donors. She brings over 20 years of marketing and communications experience, a tender heart, an insightful mind, and a drive to make meaningful connections with supporters in every organization she collaborates with.As one of the first in the world to complete a certificate in Philanthropic... Read More →
avatar for Paul Nazareth

Paul Nazareth

Chief Connector, Connectworking
Paul has worked in Canada’s philanthropic sector for over 25 years. Previously an instructor of philanthropic tax, financial, estate and gift planning with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP), he was also Vice President at Canada’s largest charity, CanadaHelps, during... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
  LeaderLab

1:30pm EDT

LL4: YES WE CAN: Standing Strong in the Face of Disruption | LeaderLab Part 3
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
Our world has changed … drastically!  There’s never been a more important time to face disruption head on. Not to beat it down, but to understand it, work with it, leverage it to our advantage and those we serve.Today’s fundraisers, directors, or board members are all being tested by, scarce resources, ever-rising expectations, challenging people and an uncertain future. In the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tania Little

Tania Little

Interim CEO, National Gallery of Canada Foundation
Tania Little is an accomplished executive with CEO and C-suite experience and 30 years of experience advancing mission, revenue, and systems change across Canada’s social-impact sector. She has generated more than $750M in philanthropic and in-kind support through major gifts, corporate... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Co-Founder, Recast Philanthropy
Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P™ (she/her/elle) is a nationally recognized fundraising executive and thought leader with nearly 15 years of experience leading high-performing teams and securing transformative philanthropic investments for organizations including Toronto Metropolitan... Read More →
avatar for Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

CEO, Leaders of Tomorrow Canada Foundation // Fondation des leaders de demain Canada
Tony is a passionate enthusiast, formerly an international fundraising consultant, now turned CEO of a start-up NPO facing the same challenges as many other leaders in the social impact sector. His background includes success as a strategist, author, speaker and executive coach who... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
  LeaderLab

3:00pm EDT

Nutrition and Networking
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Ottawa Room

Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Ottawa Room
  Networking Event - included

3:30pm EDT

LL1: Say It Like You Mean It: The Art & Science of Storytelling, Leadership, and Fundraising Result | LeaderLab Part 4 | generously sponsored by DonorPerfect
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
This full-day LeaderLab is a hands-on, highly interactive working session designed for fundraising and nonprofit leaders who want to move beyond “better messaging” and into strategic clarity.Curated and facilitated by Angel Benedict, the day blends teaching, reflection, and real-world application — with insights from frontline fundraisers, communications leaders, and donors brought into the...
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Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for Janine Foote

Janine Foote

Fund Development & Engagement Manager, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
Janine Foote brings over a decade of fundraising experience—and a lifelong instinct for storytelling—to her work as the Manager of Fund Development & Engagement with 880 CHED Santas Anonymous.

Janine believes great storytelling isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about action. Known for her ability to connect quickly and authentically with donors, she has a track record of turning conversations into meaningful support—including securing a $100,000 gift through the... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Collins

Jennifer Collins

Director, Philanthropic Operations, Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
After graduating from Queen’s University (BA in English Literature and an Honours BA in Classical Studies), Jennifer began her career at the Anglican Diocese of Toronto before moving to the Canadian Film Centre as the Managing Director of the Worldwide Short Film Festival.

For the next ten years, Jennifer worked for the Rouge Valley Health System Foundation, raising money for two hospital sites. Projects that kept her busy included managing donor recognition, the direct response program and staff lottery. Jennifer is also proud to have helped raise... Read More →
avatar for Celeste Blackmore

Celeste Blackmore

National Director, Corporate Partnerships, StorageVault Canada
Celeste Blackmore is the National Director of Partnerships and Media at StorageVault, Canada’s leading storage provider with 251 locations across Canada and a recipient of the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Women Lead Here award. StorageVault operates under multiple brands... Read More →
avatar for Owen Charters

Owen Charters

President & CEO, Pathways to Education
Owen Charters is CEO of Pathways to Education Canada, which helps youth overcome barriers and graduate from high school. An accomplished nonprofit executive, he has previously led national organizations, including BGC Canada and CanadaHelps. He serves on several boards and advisory... Read More →
Storytelling Fundraising Workbook 2026 pdf
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  LeaderLab

3:30pm EDT

LL2: From Awareness to Asking: Building an Integrated Digital Fundraising Program | LeaderLab Part 4
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
This LeaderLab is designed to help participants map or rebuild an integrated digital fundraising program end-to-end. Rather than focusing on isolated tactics, the session will explore how audience understanding, awareness, supporter acquisition, stewardship, fundraising, and future-proofing work together as part of a single connected system.Over four practical working sessions, participants will...
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Speakers
avatar for Zach Zimmel

Zach Zimmel

CEO, Principles
Zach Zimmel is CEO and lead strategist at Principles, a Toronto-based social-impact strategy and creative agency. He works with charities across North America to launch narrative change strategies and strengthen digital fundraising/engagement by building repeatable systems: audience... Read More →
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Jill Oba-McGrath

Jill Oba-McGrath

Director of Communications and Fund Development, Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Jill Oba-McGrath is a communications and fund development leader working at the intersection of social justice and philanthropy. She currently serves as Director of Communications and Fund Development at Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. For over a decade, Jill has led campaigns... Read More →
avatar for Leigh Sandison

Leigh Sandison

Managing Director, Real Path
Leigh Sandison started her career in fundraising in the UK - first in corporate partnerships, then product development and innovation in mass market fundraising. She then moved to the agency side, focusing on strategy and insight-led experience design for Fortune 500 companies. Drawing... Read More →
avatar for Shairoze Walji

Shairoze Walji

Director of Individual Giving, UNICEF Canada
Shairoze Walji works in fundraising and communications, driving multi-channel growth. Her work explores storytelling, donor relationships and how to move beyond crisis-driven engagement to build more meaningful connections. She studied at Wilfrid Laurier University and The New School... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  LeaderLab

3:30pm EDT

LL3: Legacy Giving for the Rest of Us | LeaderLab Part 4 | generously sponsored by epilogue
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
How to create a comprehensive and inspiring Legacy Donor Journey - no matter your charity's size.This exclusive LeaderLab is designed for nonprofits (including small and mid-sized organizations) seeking to grow legacy giving in a way that's realistic, values-driven, and achievable.Led by Tess Conrad with contributions by leading legacy fundraising voices, including Chantelle Ohrling, Aimée...
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Speakers
avatar for Tess Conrad, CFRE

Tess Conrad, CFRE

Principal Consultant, Full Potential Fundraising
Tess is a seasoned fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience and has held her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) since 2021. She also holds a Certificate in Fundraising Management from BCIT and a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU. She’s a high-achiever with... Read More →
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
avatar for Lynne Boardman

Lynne Boardman

Managing Director, Harvey McKinnon Associates
Lynne Boardman has been working in fundraising for 20 years in Canada and the UK. She's worked with wonderful organizations representing a myriad of causes, from overseas development to health care, environmental causes, human rights, homelessness organizations, and Indigenous education... Read More →
avatar for Aimée Lindenberger

Aimée Lindenberger

Senior Consultant, Global Philanthropic Canada
Aimée Lindenberger is the founder of Refocus Fundraising and a Senior Consultant at Global Philanthropic Canada. A gifted writer and speaker, Aimée authored How to Talk About Legacy Giving and How to Engage Potential Legacy Donors. She brings over 20 years of marketing and communications experience, a tender heart, an insightful mind, and a drive to make meaningful connections with supporters in every organization she collaborates with.As one of the first in the world to complete a certificate in Philanthropic... Read More →
avatar for Paul Nazareth

Paul Nazareth

Chief Connector, Connectworking
Paul has worked in Canada’s philanthropic sector for over 25 years. Previously an instructor of philanthropic tax, financial, estate and gift planning with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP), he was also Vice President at Canada’s largest charity, CanadaHelps, during... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
  LeaderLab

3:30pm EDT

LL4: YES WE CAN: Standing Strong in the Face of Disruption | LeaderLab Part 4
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
Our world has changed … drastically!  There’s never been a more important time to face disruption head on. Not to beat it down, but to understand it, work with it, leverage it to our advantage and those we serve.Today’s fundraisers, directors, or board members are all being tested by, scarce resources, ever-rising expectations, challenging people and an uncertain future. In the...
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Speakers
avatar for Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

CEO, Leaders of Tomorrow Canada Foundation // Fondation des leaders de demain Canada
Tony is a passionate enthusiast, formerly an international fundraising consultant, now turned CEO of a start-up NPO facing the same challenges as many other leaders in the social impact sector. His background includes success as a strategist, author, speaker and executive coach who... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P

Co-Founder, Recast Philanthropy
Tanya Rumble, MPNL, CFRE, CMP, MFA-P™ (she/her/elle) is a nationally recognized fundraising executive and thought leader with nearly 15 years of experience leading high-performing teams and securing transformative philanthropic investments for organizations including Toronto Metropolitan... Read More →
avatar for Tania Little

Tania Little

Interim CEO, National Gallery of Canada Foundation
Tania Little is an accomplished executive with CEO and C-suite experience and 30 years of experience advancing mission, revenue, and systems change across Canada’s social-impact sector. She has generated more than $750M in philanthropic and in-kind support through major gifts, corporate... Read More →
Wednesday May 27, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
  LeaderLab
 
Thursday, May 28
 

7:30am EDT

Registration
Thursday May 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT
Thursday May 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT

7:30am EDT

Breakfast
Thursday May 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT

Thursday May 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT
  Networking Event - included

8:00am EDT

Welcome and CFC Opening
Thursday May 28, 2026 8:00am - 8:15am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB

Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for David Kravinchuk

David Kravinchuk

Philanthropy Firebrand, The Common Good

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:00am - 8:15am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB

8:15am EDT

Special Welcome + Keynote Introduction by Toronto Foundation
Thursday May 28, 2026 8:15am - 8:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB

Speakers
avatar for Sharon Avery

Sharon Avery

President & CEO, Toronto Foundation
Sharon Avery is President & CEO of Toronto Foundation, where she has led a shift toward more inclusive, participatory, and equity-focused philanthropy. She has championed gender-lens investing, built community-driven research like Toronto’s Social Capital Studies, and introduced... Read More →
Sponsors
avatar for Toronto Foundation

Toronto Foundation

Toronto Foundation
For over 40 years, we’ve offered donor-advised funds that generate grants for community organizations in Toronto, across Canada, and beyond. But our ambition for more meaningful change goes beyond that. We help philanthropists, charities, government and other partners maximize their... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 8:15am - 8:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Optional learning opportunity

8:30am EDT

Community and Belonging | The Simone Joyaux Memorial Opening Keynote | generously sponsored by Toronto Foundation
Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
Thanks to the support of Toronto Foundation, Canada's Fundraising Conference is pleased to welcome Floyd Jones as the SImone Joyaux Memorial Opening Keynote Speaker.Floyd will kick off the conference with a high-energy, inspiring opening keynote that will energize the room and set the tone for the days ahead.This session will explore how community and belonging are built not only around us,...
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Speakers
avatar for Floyd Jones

Floyd Jones

Speaker, Coach & Community Builder, Floyd Jones Enterprises
Floyd Jones is a speaker, coach, and community builder based in NYC, dedicated to helping nonprofits and purpose-driven entrepreneurs create sustainable, engaged communities that drive lasting impact. As the founder of Floyd Jones Enterprises, a media and coaching company, and BackBlack... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Keynote+Plenary

9:30am EDT

Nutrition and Networking
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:30am - 9:55am EDT
Ottawa Room

Thursday May 28, 2026 9:30am - 9:55am EDT
Ottawa Room
  Networking Event - included

9:55am EDT

B1-1: Case Study: Building a Movement from Scratch: How Save The CBC Mobilized 100,000 People in Months
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
How do you build a movement when the stakes are high, the opposition is powerful, and your team is small?When CBC came under threat, Save The CBC started with a small group of volunteers and quickly grew into a high-impact social media campaign with more than 100,000 followers. In this session, Harvey McKinnon breaks down how the campaign was built, what worked, and what non-profits can apply to...
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Speakers
avatar for Harvey McKinnon

Harvey McKinnon

President, Harvey McKinnon Associates
Harvey McKinnon has been a fundraiser for over 40 years and is recognized as one of North America’s leading fundraising experts. His consultancy raises money for hundreds of non-profits in Canada and the USA. He is a seasoned trainer who has delivered fundraising keynotes at conferences... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Breakout session

9:55am EDT

B1-2: Major Donors Are Closer Than You Think: Identifying Your Next Major Gift Donor From Within
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Toronto Room
No matter where you are in your campaign planning, building out a major gift strategy, or simply trying to breathe new life into a tired prospect pipeline, the goal is the same: engage and inspire more people to invest more meaningfully in your mission.That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with a system.Your next major donor likely isn’t a headline name suggested at a board meeting or...
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Speakers
avatar for Liz Rejman

Liz Rejman

Principal, Liz Rejman + Co.
Liz Rejman (she/her) is a fundraising operations strategist and donor data specialist with more than 20 years of experience supporting social service, arts, healthcare, and higher education organizations. Across her career, she has worked in nearly every facet of fundraising — from data management... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Toronto Room
  Breakout session

9:55am EDT

B1-3: The Mycelial Exchange: A Circular Dialogue on Community Centric Fundraising
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Victoria Room
In the forest, the mycelial network serves as a subterranean intelligence. A vast web of fungal threads connects individual plants into a collaborative ecosystem. This "wood wide web" facilitates reciprocal exchange, ensuring nutrients reach the most vulnerable and allowing the forest to communicate as a single organism. This session adopts a micellar learning model to explore Community Centric...
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Speakers
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 10:55am EDT
Victoria Room
  Breakout session

9:55am EDT

C1-1: Are You Ready for a Capital Campaign?
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 12:00pm EDT
Vancouver Room
Most nonprofits underestimate what campaign readiness really requires. Goals get set, timelines get announced, and fundraising teams are left sorting out what's actually realistic.This interactive two-hour clinic is for development leaders who want to get ahead of that. Drawing on 25+ years of campaign experience from $5M to $200M, Emma Lewzey will walk participants through the leadership,...
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Speakers
avatar for Emma Lewzey

Emma Lewzey

Founder and Lead Consultant, Blue Sky Philanthropy
Emma Lewzey, CFRE, is a strategic advisor and campaign specialist with 25+ years of nonprofit fundraising and leadership experience. She launched her major gift career in 2002, managing her first capital campaign for Canada's largest 2SLGBTQ+ Community Centre.

Since then, Emma has... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 9:55am - 12:00pm EDT
Vancouver Room
  Fundraising Clinic

10:55am EDT

Comfort Break 1
Thursday May 28, 2026 10:55am - 11:00am EDT
Thursday May 28, 2026 10:55am - 11:00am EDT
  Comfort Break

11:00am EDT

B2-1: Trends in Online Giving from the 2026 Edition of The Giving Report
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
This session explores key findings from the 2026 edition of The Giving Report, offering a national snapshot of online giving in 2025 and the trends shaping the sector. Presented by Mitchell Hillier (Director of Business Development, Environics Analytics) and Julie Fiorini (General Manager, Charity and Donor Services, CanadaHelps), it will highlight shifts in donor behaviour, the continued reliance...
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Speakers
avatar for Mitchell Hillier

Mitchell Hillier

Director of Business Development, Environics Analytics
Mitchell is the Director of Business Development leading the Not For Profit, Education and Public Health sectors at Environics Analytics. Whether it’s a custom segmentation, developing a strategic plan, or building data literacy, he has worked with organizations of all sizes to... Read More →
avatar for Julie Fiorini

Julie Fiorini

General Manager of Charity & Donor Services, CanadaHelps
Julie Fiorini is the General Manager of Donor Services and Brand Marketing at CanadaHelps. Julie brings a diverse background in marketing, communications, and fundraising to support Canadians on their philanthropic journeys and to drive much-needed donations to charities working every... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Breakout session

11:00am EDT

B2-2: Community Building 101: Welcoming All Voices into Philanthropy
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
Building meaningful relationships across communities requires more than outreach tactics or fundraising strategy. It starts with trust, listening, and creating spaces where more people feel genuinely welcomed into philanthropy.In this engaging breakout session, Jaya Mootoo will explore practical approaches to community building for fundraisers and community foundation professionals working to...
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Speakers
avatar for Jaya Mootoo

Jaya Mootoo

Director, Fundholder and Community Engagement / Equity Seeker, Oakville Community Foundation/ Jaya Mootoo Consulting
Jaya is a driven professional, dedicated to equity and inclusion in fundraising, the nonprofit and charitable sector and society. She has over 20-years of experience in social services and community development, including working with women and children experiencing intimate partner... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Toronto Room
  Breakout session

11:00am EDT

B2-3: Interactive Content to Boost Online Donations
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
Details coming soon.
Speakers
avatar for Claire Kerr

Claire Kerr

Sr. Director, Care2, Inc.
Claire is a nonprofit veteran who has worked for organizations in economic development, education, and fundraising sectors. At Care2, she works with charities and nonprofits as they use digital channels to acquire new supporters. She has presented online, social and mobile fundraising... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Victoria Room
  Breakout session

11:00am EDT

B2-4: Beyond Fundraising: What Charities Are Learning About Reserves, Investments, and Mission Capital
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Seattle Room - 26th Floor
As financial pressures grow and community needs intensify, many charities are reassessing how reserves, investments, and long-term capital strategies contribute to organizational resilience and mission sustainability.This session will explore emerging shifts in how charitable organizations are thinking about financial stewardship beyond annual fundraising, including reserve policies, investment...
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Speakers
avatar for Aneil Gokhale

Aneil Gokhale

Director, Philanthropy, Toronto Foundation
Aneil Gokhale is Lead, Philanthropic Advisory Services at Toronto Foundation, where he helps individuals, families, and professional advisors design values-based approaches to giving. Since joining in July 2012, he has helped grow the Foundation's platform from a few hundred funds... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Seattle Room - 26th Floor
  Breakout session

12:00pm EDT

Lunch | generously sponsored by PearTree
Thursday May 28, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT

Thursday May 28, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT
  Networking Event - included

12:45pm EDT

Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way
Thursday May 28, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
"Lead, follow or get out of the way" may not be the kindest call to action.  Nonetheless, it comes close to sensing the urgency of our time in search of the next generation of leaders for the nonprofit / social impact sector in Canada.Creating calm, instilling confidence, a focus on values and providing direction in the midst of a chaotic world is not easy.How will leadership differ for the...
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Moderators
avatar for Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

Tony Myers, Ph.D., M.A., LL.B., CFRE (Ret’d)

CEO, Leaders of Tomorrow Canada Foundation // Fondation des leaders de demain Canada
Tony is a passionate enthusiast, formerly an international fundraising consultant, now turned CEO of a start-up NPO facing the same challenges as many other leaders in the social impact sector. His background includes success as a strategist, author, speaker and executive coach who... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE

Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, David Suzuki Foundation
Chantelle Ohrling, CFRE (she/her), is the David Suzuki Foundation’s Senior Officer of Legacy Giving, helping caring Canadians alchemize their values and hopes into enduring environmental protections. Chantelle also serves as Chair of Communications and Chair of Equity & Reconciliation... Read More →
avatar for Sharon Avery

Sharon Avery

President & CEO, Toronto Foundation
Sharon Avery is President & CEO of Toronto Foundation, where she has led a shift toward more inclusive, participatory, and equity-focused philanthropy. She has championed gender-lens investing, built community-driven research like Toronto’s Social Capital Studies, and introduced... Read More →
avatar for Krishan Mehta

Krishan Mehta

Vice-President, University Advancement and Alumni Relations, Toronto Metropolitan University
As Vice-President, University Advancement, Krishan Mehta leads Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) fundraising and alumni relations programs. A respected leader in philanthropy, stewardship, and engagement, Krishan has been a driving force within the TMU community since 201... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Keynote+Plenary, Panel Discussion

1:45pm EDT

Comfort Break 2
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:45pm - 1:50pm EDT
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:45pm - 1:50pm EDT
  Comfort Break

1:50pm EDT

B3-1: Braver Together: Community, Courage, and the Future of Fundraising
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
How to turn courage, collaboration, and belonging into measurable fundraising impact.The fundraising sector is at an inflection point. Innovation is accelerating. Expectations are rising. Burnout is real. And too often, organizations respond by retreating into silos—between development and marketing, programs and leadership, generations and fundraising models.But the future of fundraising will...
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Speakers
avatar for Tammy Zonker

Tammy Zonker

President & CEO, Fundraising Transformed
Tammy Zonker is a passionate leader, strategic thinker, author, and recognized expert in major gift fundraising with nearly three decades of impactful experience. As the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed, President of the Modern Institute for Charitable Giving, Aut... Read More →
avatar for Floyd Jones

Floyd Jones

Speaker, Coach & Community Builder, Floyd Jones Enterprises
Floyd Jones is a speaker, coach, and community builder based in NYC, dedicated to helping nonprofits and purpose-driven entrepreneurs create sustainable, engaged communities that drive lasting impact. As the founder of Floyd Jones Enterprises, a media and coaching company, and BackBlack... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Breakout session

1:50pm EDT

B3-2: Legacy Landscape Report: What You Need to Know Now
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Victoria Room
Epilogue Wills teamed up with Good Works to look at Canada’s Legacy Landscape in 2025, and the result is an insightful report that every fundraiser should read. Join him for the most urgent and actionable highlights.
Speakers
avatar for Arin Klug

Arin Klug

Co-Founder & COO, Epilogue Wills
Arin Klug is Co-Founder and COO of Epilogue. With backgrounds in Computer Science and Estate Planning, Arin co-founded Epilogue with the goal of democratizing estate planning for all Canadians.

avatar for Holly Wagg

Holly Wagg

Partner and CEO, Good Works
Holly Wagg, CFRE, leads both the people and business at Good Works - a Canadian fundraising agency that specializes in direct mail, digital and legacy giving for annual donors. She is the proud co-author of You Can’t Take It With You: The Art & Science of Legacy Fundraising (20... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Victoria Room
  Breakout session

1:50pm EDT

B3-3: Fundraising and Membership Structures
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Vancouver Room
Historically, membership was an important source of funds for the nonprofit sector. This has declined in the 21st century, in part due to declining participation and in part due to modern corporate statutes such as the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and Ontario's Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, which conferred increased rights on members; many nonprofits have switched to closed membership...
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Speakers
avatar for Benjamin Miller

Benjamin Miller

Staff Lawyer/Policy Advisor Nonprofit Law Ontario, Ontario Nonprofit Network
Benjamin Miller (he/him) is a staff lawyer on the Nonprofit Law Ontario project, where he focuses on the legal needs of nonprofits and charities. Over the past 8 years, Benjamin has answered thousands of nonprofit law questions, developed and delivered hundreds of workshops, and developed... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Vancouver Room
  Breakout session

1:50pm EDT

B3-4: Thirty Top Tips to Boost Your DM Program
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Seattle Room - 26th Floor
Join Sonya for this rapid-fire session where she’ll share 30 great suggestions to help you raise more money with your direct mail appeals.These tried-and-true techniques have been carefully collected from Sonya’s wide-ranging experience both within charities and agency-side. Whether you’re in a small(er) shop or a large organization, and no matter if your DM activities are new or mature,...
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Speakers
avatar for Sonya Swiridjuk

Sonya Swiridjuk

Principal, Sonya Swiridjuk Consulting
Sonya Swiridjuk, CFRE, got her start in fundraising with her youth bowling league in Winnipeg, convincing her dad to make a “major gift investment” and buy her lot of chocolate after most of it had already been eaten. Today, Sonya’s fundraising activities and writing convince... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm EDT
Seattle Room - 26th Floor
  Breakout session

1:50pm EDT

C2: Inside a $1 Million Monthly Program (And What You Can Steal From It)
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 4:15pm EDT
Toronto Room
Monthly giving programs are the backbone of sustainable fundraising—but how do you grow one meaningfully without overcomplicating your strategy?Join Mary Saretski, Director of Donor & Stakeholder Relations at the Edmonton Humane Society, as she shares how a strong existing monthly giving program was elevated to new heights—currently generating $1 million annually. Since 2024, Mary and her team...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Saretski

Mary Saretski

Director, Donor & Stakeholder Relations, Edmonton Humane Society
A relationship builder, creative thinker, and problem solver, Mary brings more than 20 years of experience in the charitable sector, including leadership roles with the University of Alberta and Habitat for Humanity Edmonton. She currently serves as Director of Donor & Stakeholder... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 1:50pm - 4:15pm EDT
Toronto Room
  Fundraising Clinic

2:50pm EDT

Nutrition and Networking
Thursday May 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:15pm EDT
Ottawa Room

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:15pm EDT
Ottawa Room
  Networking Event - included

3:15pm EDT

B4-1: Building Proposals That Work
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
How is your closing rate on proposals? If your closing rate is not 100%, this is the session that you need to attend. Learn the art of proposal development and understand how to move your closing ratio to 100%! (Just think of the leverage with your boss to be able to say… I deserve a raise… I closed every proposal I presented this past year… who else is doing that?)The session will look at...
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Speakers
avatar for Brent Barootes

Brent Barootes

President and CEO, Partnership Group - Sponsorship Specialists
Brent Barootes has spent over 35 years in the sponsorship marketing industry, developing and delivering profitable sponsorship programs to charities and non profits that result in high returns on investment for these organizations. As President and CEO of the Partnership Group... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Breakout session

3:15pm EDT

B4-2: From Hello to High Impact: AI Powered, Multichannel Fundraising Across Phone, SMS and Digital
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Toronto Room
The way donors engage has changed—and tele-fundraising has changed with it. Today’s most effective fundraising programs place live conversations at the centre, supported by integrated SMS, digital touchpoints, and AI-informed insights that strengthen donor relationships across channels. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how tele-fundraising teams are working today within...
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Speakers
avatar for Alison Keys

Alison Keys

CEO, Keys Marketing Group
As Founder, President & CEO of Keys Marketing Group, has spent nearly three decades helping nonprofits and professional associations unlock transformational growth.

Over the past 29 years, she and her team have designed and delivered thousands of successful fundraising campaigns a... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith

Director of Operations, Keys Marketing Group
Lisa Smith is the Director of Operations at Keys Marketing Group, where she helps Canadian charities, non-profits, and member-based organizations build stronger donor relationships through thoughtful fundraising strategy, clear communication, and meaningful conversation.Lisa has more than a decade of... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Toronto Room
  Breakout session

3:15pm EDT

B4-3a: How to Connect with Multi-Racial Donors
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Victoria Room
Presented by Eric Saarvala, Executive Director of the Raymond James Canada FoundationFundraisers often talk about connecting with specific cultural communities — but what happens when more and more donors don’t fit neatly into just one group?As Canada’s population continues to evolve, a growing number of people identify as multi-racial, bringing different lived experiences,...
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Speakers
avatar for Eric Saarvala

Eric Saarvala

Executive Director, Raymond James Canada Foundation
Eric Saarvala is the Executive Director of the Raymond James Canada Foundation and Head, Corporate Sustainability. His 20+ years of consulting and management experience in the private, public, and non-profit sectors focuses on social impact through sustainability, corporate social... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Victoria Room
  Breakout session

4:15pm EDT

Comfort Break 3
Thursday May 28, 2026 4:15pm - 4:20pm EDT
Thursday May 28, 2026 4:15pm - 4:20pm EDT
  Comfort Break

4:20pm EDT

Building a Culture of Generosity in Canada
Thursday May 28, 2026 4:20pm - 5:20pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
If we’re going to shift culture, it has to come from multiple angles (eg. time, money, community), while also grounding the conversation in what actually makes movements resonate and scale.  Join Duke Chang, CEO of CanadaHelps, in a fireside chat about building a culture of generosity in Canada and the role the sector can play in sparking something bigger than any one organization. 
Moderators
avatar for Duke Chang

Duke Chang

President & CEO, CanadaHelps
Duke Chang is the President and Chief Executive Officer of CanadaHelps, the country’s largest online platform for donating and fundraising. Duke is leading CanadaHelps’ efforts to transform the way Canadians support charities, ensuring that organizations of all sizes can thrive... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Megan Conway

Dr. Megan Conway

President & CEO, Volunteer Bénévoles Canada
Megan Conway loves sparking creativity, curiosity and capacity across teams, organizations and networks to mobilize social change. With twenty years of diverse leadership roles in government and the charitable, voluntary and academic sectors, Megan has been recognized for her ability... Read More →
avatar for Brad Offman

Brad Offman

Chief Executive Officer, Greater Purpose Inc.
Brad Offman is the Founder & CEO of Greater Purpose. He has spent his career in both the business and charitable sectors, launching Spire Philanthropy, co-founding the Partnership Conference and Social Impact Professionals Canada, and holding senior roles at Mackenzie Investments... Read More →
Thursday May 28, 2026 4:20pm - 5:20pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
  Keynote+Plenary, Panel Discussion

5:20pm EDT

Closing Platitudes and Gratitudes
Thursday May 28, 2026 5:20pm - 5:35pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB
Life is hard.  There will be prizes.

Speakers
avatar for Angel Benedict, CFRE

Angel Benedict, CFRE

Executive Director, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous
With more than 20 years in the non-profit sector, Angel Benedict, CFRE, has made a career out of fundraising, storytelling, and gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) reminding people why this work matters. A nationally syndicated writer, media spokesperson and conference speaker, Angel... Read More →
avatar for David Kravinchuk

David Kravinchuk

Philanthropy Firebrand, The Common Good

Thursday May 28, 2026 5:20pm - 5:35pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom AB

5:30pm EDT

Fundraisers in Cathedrals Drinking Cocktails
Thursday May 28, 2026 5:30pm - 8:30pm EDT
The Church of the Holy Trinity @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
CLICK for walking directions
Come enjoy an evening of networking, conversation, and cocktails at the beautiful and historic Church of the Holy Trinity—just a six-minute (450m) walk from the DoubleTree Hotel along Toronto’s parkland paths. The venue is fully accessible and offers a warm, inspiring atmosphere.Opened in 1847, Holy Trinity is a recognized heritage landmark. Its bright, open nave and sanctuary create a...
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Thursday May 28, 2026 5:30pm - 8:30pm EDT
The Church of the Holy Trinity 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
  Networking Event - included
 
Friday, May 29
 

8:00am EDT

Registration
Friday May 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
Friday May 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

8:00am EDT

Breakfast
Friday May 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

Friday May 29, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
  Networking Event - included

8:30am EDT

WS1: Human-Centered Major Gifts: Strategy, Skill, and Ethical Courage in a High-Tech World | Workshop Part 1
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
Session OverviewMajor gifts fundraising sits at the intersection of strategy, psychology, relationship, and responsibility. In this interactive 3.5-hour training, participants will define or refine what major gifts truly mean for their organization—moving beyond arbitrary dollar thresholds to a model grounded in mission, capacity, and human connection.Participants will explore the growing role...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Zonker

Tammy Zonker

President & CEO, Fundraising Transformed
Tammy Zonker is a passionate leader, strategic thinker, author, and recognized expert in major gift fundraising with nearly three decades of impactful experience. As the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed, President of the Modern Institute for Charitable Giving, Aut... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  WorkshopIntensive

8:30am EDT

WS2: Your Best Donors Are Already Here: A Holistic Donor Stewardship Strategy That Recognizes Time, Talent, and Treasure | Workshop Part 1
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
Volunteer engagement has been an afterthought in too many strategic plans for too long. The cost isn't just operational, it's relational. And in a sector where donor trust is hard-won and easily lost, that's a risk no executive can afford to keep taking.The research is unambiguous: people who volunteer give at dramatically higher rates, give more, and stay longer. Yet most organizations manage...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Pang-Parks

Jessica Pang-Parks

Principal Consultant, Learn with JPP
Jessica Pang-Parks, CVA, Trauma of Money Certified™, is a volunteer engagement thought leader who helps organizations build trust, create impact, and inspire belonging. She is the recipient of the 2021 Alison Caird Young Leader Award in recognition of her leadership and excellence... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  WorkshopIntensive

8:30am EDT

WS3: The Future of Sponsorship | Workshop Part 1
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Toronto Room @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
The landscape is changing. Businesses and companies are shifting their dollars from philanthropic giving to sponsorships/partnerships/CSR/Purpose Driven Partnerships (or whatever you want to term it). The shift is from giving you money and getting nothing in return but a charitable tax receipt to giving you that money and getting measurable ROI from that investment.Are you aware that less then 5%...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brent Barootes

Brent Barootes

President and CEO, Partnership Group - Sponsorship Specialists
Brent Barootes has spent over 35 years in the sponsorship marketing industry, developing and delivering profitable sponsorship programs to charities and non profits that result in high returns on investment for these organizations. As President and CEO of the Partnership Group... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Toronto Room
  WorkshopIntensive

8:30am EDT

WS4: The AI Clarity Clinic: A Practical Workshop for Fundraisers to Move from Uncertain to Confident | Workshop Part 1
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Victoria Room @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
AI in fundraising is raising serious questions, opportunities, risks... and blood pressure.Most fundraisers are somewhere between "Please automate the things!" and "I want no part of this." Some are wondering, "If I use this well and tell people, am I training my own replacement?" It's all valid. It's also messy. It's time for clarity.This interactive clinic is designed for fundraisers:...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Leah Henderson

Leah Henderson

Chief Digital + Business Services Officer, Public Outreach Fundraising
Leah Henderson is Chief Digital + Business Services Officer at Public Outreach, where she leads organizational strategy, digital operations, business services, and transformation initiatives. With more than 20 years of executive leadership experience, Leah has helped scale and modernize... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:30am EDT
Victoria Room
  WorkshopIntensive

10:30am EDT

Nutrition and Networking
Friday May 29, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Ottawa Room @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario

Friday May 29, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Ottawa Room
  Networking Event - included

11:00am EDT

WS1: Human-Centered Major Gifts: Strategy, Skill, and Ethical Courage in a High-Tech World | Workshop Part 2
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
Session OverviewMajor gifts fundraising sits at the intersection of strategy, psychology, relationship, and responsibility. In this interactive 3.5-hour training, participants will define or refine what major gifts truly mean for their organization—moving beyond arbitrary dollar thresholds to a model grounded in mission, capacity, and human connection.Participants will explore the growing role...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Zonker

Tammy Zonker

President & CEO, Fundraising Transformed
Tammy Zonker is a passionate leader, strategic thinker, author, and recognized expert in major gift fundraising with nearly three decades of impactful experience. As the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed, President of the Modern Institute for Charitable Giving, Aut... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom A
  WorkshopIntensive

11:00am EDT

WS2: Your Best Donors Are Already Here: A Holistic Donor Stewardship Strategy That Recognizes Time, Talent, and Treasure | Workshop Part 2
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
Volunteer engagement has been an afterthought in too many strategic plans for too long. The cost isn't just operational, it's relational. And in a sector where donor trust is hard-won and easily lost, that's a risk no executive can afford to keep taking.The research is unambiguous: people who volunteer give at dramatically higher rates, give more, and stay longer. Yet most organizations manage...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Pang-Parks

Jessica Pang-Parks

Principal Consultant, Learn with JPP
Jessica Pang-Parks, CVA, Trauma of Money Certified™, is a volunteer engagement thought leader who helps organizations build trust, create impact, and inspire belonging. She is the recipient of the 2021 Alison Caird Young Leader Award in recognition of her leadership and excellence... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Mandarin Ballroom B
  WorkshopIntensive

11:00am EDT

WS3: The Future of Sponsorship | Workshop Part 2
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Toronto Room @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
The landscape is changing. Businesses and companies are shifting their dollars from philanthropic giving to sponsorships/partnerships/CSR/Purpose Driven Partnerships (or whatever you want to term it). The shift is from giving you money and getting nothing in return but a charitable tax receipt to giving you that money and getting measurable ROI from that investment.Are you aware that less then 5%...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brent Barootes

Brent Barootes

President and CEO, Partnership Group - Sponsorship Specialists
Brent Barootes has spent over 35 years in the sponsorship marketing industry, developing and delivering profitable sponsorship programs to charities and non profits that result in high returns on investment for these organizations. As President and CEO of the Partnership Group... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Toronto Room
  WorkshopIntensive

11:00am EDT

WS4: The AI Clarity Clinic: A Practical Workshop for Fundraisers to Move from Uncertain to Confident | Workshop Part 2
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Victoria Room @ 17 Trinity Square, Toronto, Ontario
AI in fundraising is raising serious questions, opportunities, risks... and blood pressure.Most fundraisers are somewhere between "Please automate the things!" and "I want no part of this." Some are wondering, "If I use this well and tell people, am I training my own replacement?" It's all valid. It's also messy. It's time for clarity.This interactive clinic is designed for fundraisers:...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Ryann Miller (she/her 🏳️‍🌈)

Founder, Guide + Mapmaker, Spark & Signal
Long before "digital transformation" became mainstream, Ryann Miller (she/her) was speaking at fundraising conferences about digital being more than just tools and tech, why that matters and what to do about it. She pushed the conversation beyond platforms and campaigns, framing digital... Read More →
avatar for Leah Henderson

Leah Henderson

Chief Digital + Business Services Officer, Public Outreach Fundraising
Leah Henderson is Chief Digital + Business Services Officer at Public Outreach, where she leads organizational strategy, digital operations, business services, and transformation initiatives. With more than 20 years of executive leadership experience, Leah has helped scale and modernize... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Victoria Room
  WorkshopIntensive
 
Canada's Fundraising Conference 2026
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  • Breakout session
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