At Spark the Fire, we believe that professional development should be both practical and meaningful. Conferences aren’t just about brushing up on skills—they’re about building community, nurturing your mission, and discovering the clarity to keep doing the work that matters.
Whether you're a grant writer, nonprofit leader, or community builder, the right conference can ignite new ideas and deepen your purpose. Below, we’ve curated our favorite 2025 and 2026 events with that in mind. These are the conferences we return to again and again—because they align with our values and deliver real impact.
🔥 1. GrantSummit | Grant Professionals Association (GPA)
We’re putting this one first—and yes, we’re a little biased. GrantSummit is the leading national conference dedicated solely to the grant profession. It’s four full days of learning, connection, and practical strategy for those who write, manage, or consult on grants.
The world of grants is constantly shifting—government priorities change, funders evolve, and new tools emerge. This conference is where you go to stay ahead of the curve. You’ll find expert-led sessions on everything from building a logic model to navigating the ethics of AI. It’s a space where you can explore business models for consulting, hear what’s working for peers across sectors, and gain insight into the challenges both funders and nonprofits are facing today.
One of the biggest draws is the people. GrantSummit is packed with professionals who care deeply about doing meaningful work. The networking happens not just in hallways and happy hours, but in the sessions themselves—collaborative, thoughtful conversations that spark new ideas and often lead to long-term partnerships.
Whether you're seeking strategies for managing lost federal revenue, designing more compelling budgets, or simply looking to feel reinspired, GrantSummit delivers. It’s a must-attend for anyone serious about mastering the art and practice of grant writing.
Date: October 2025
Location: Baltimore, MD
Cost: ~$900
Website: www.grantprofessionals.org
🔥 2. Nonprofit Storytelling Conference
This isn’t just another conference—it’s a masterclass in how to use storytelling to raise more money, deepen donor relationships, and inspire real change. The Nonprofit Storytelling Conference is known for its generous spirit, actionable content, and beautifully curated experience, welcoming approximately 1,200 individuals.
Over three days, you’ll explore how to craft messages that resonate—from donor appeals to case statements to campaign videos. You’ll walk away with practical tools to strengthen every piece of donor communication—and you'll see the difference in your results. Better responses. More gifts. And more confidence in your voice as a fundraiser or communicator.
This conference focuses on results, not just theory. Attendees consistently say it pays for itself—and then some. What sets it apart is the thoughtful attention to detail, including cozy touches like giving each attendee a blanket to keep warm in the session rooms. It's a small gesture, but it speaks volumes about how they value comfort, community, and care.
If you're looking to raise more money using story—and feel good about how you're doing it—this is the room to be in.
Date: November 13–15, 2025
Location: Location Changes; San Diego, CA in 2025
Cost: ~$1,100
🔥 3. AFP ICON | Association of Fundraising Professionals
Known as the largest gathering of fundraising professionals in the world, AFP ICON offers something for everyone—from annual fund managers and grant writers to major gift officers, consultants, and nonprofit executives. What makes this conference stand out is its scale: more than 3,000 fundraisers from across the globe come together to learn, connect, and innovate.
The session lineup covers every aspect of fundraising, including grant writing, donor stewardship, campaign planning, corporate partnerships, and DEI in development. You’ll hear from some of the top voices in the field, engage in powerful panel discussions, and come away with tested strategies to grow your fundraising results.
It’s a large conference, but it doesn’t feel impersonal—especially if you carve out time to attend a smaller workshop or networking group. It’s also a great opportunity to earn CFRE credits while staying on top of trends shaping our field.
If you’re looking to sharpen your skills while gaining a wide-angle view of the fundraising landscape, AFP ICON is a solid investment.
Date: April 2026
Location: San Diego, CA
Cost: ~$1,500–$2,000 (early bird and member discounts available)
Website: www.afpicon.com
🔥 4. Nonprofit Impact Conference | Nonprofit Association of Oregon (NAO)
This is NAO’s inaugural statewide conference—and they’re setting the bar high. What makes this event stand out? For starters, they pay their speakers. In a field where expertise is often undervalued, NAO offers honoraria ranging from $800–$1,500, depending on session length and format. It’s a meaningful commitment to equity, professionalism, and respect for the time and talent of presenters.
But this two-day experience is just as valuable for attendees. The Nonprofit Impact Conference brings together hundreds of nonprofit leaders from across the Pacific Northwest for a dynamic mix of breakout sessions, deep-dive workshops, field trips, networking activities, panel discussions, and expert “office hours.” The programming is designed to keep you engaged, inspired, and connected.
If you're looking for a conference that walks the talk—centering insight, innovation, and community impact—this is a strong new entry worth watching (and attending).
Date: October 21–22, 2025
Location: Portland, OR + Virtual
Cost: ~$400
Website: www.nonprofitoregon.org
🔥 5. Nonprofit Consulting Conference | Funding for Good
This in-person event is one of the only conferences designed exclusively for nonprofit consultants—making it a perfect fit for grant writers transitioning to consulting or looking to grow a sustainable business. Hosted in beautiful Asheville, NC, at the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company complex, it’s 2.5 days of deep learning, connection, and strategy.
Expect practical, business-focused sessions on branding, pricing, client pipelines, AI tools, work-life balance, scaling services, and more. Early-bird pricing saves $200 and includes access to a pre-conference virtual networking session. The attendee experience is powerful: peer mentoring, breakout groups, and a community designed to support consultants at any stage of growth.
Date: September 16–18, 2025
Location: Asheville, NC (Sierra Nevada Brewing Company)
Cost: ~$1,000
Audience: ~200 nonprofit consultants and practitioners
Website: nonprofitconsultingconference.org
🔥 6. Annual Conference | Montana Nonprofit Association (MNA)
Don’t underestimate this one—it may be regional, but the Montana Nonprofit Association conference consistently delivers big value. Held in a different city each year, the 2025 event takes place in Billings and includes both in-person and online options.
Drawing around 300 attendees, this conference brings together a diverse and dedicated cross-section of nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and grant professionals from across Montana and beyond. You’ll find thoughtful sessions on grant readiness, leadership, DEI, financial strategy, rural community challenges, and more. The hybrid format makes it accessible even if you can’t travel—and the in-person gathering is known for its warmth and strong peer-to-peer connections.
If you're based in the Mountain West or serving rural communities, this is a smart choice that offers relevant, relatable insight—and a real sense of belonging.
Dates:
Virtual: September 15–19, 2025
In-Person (Billings): September 25–26, 2025
Location: Rotates throughout Montana (2025: Billings, MT)
Cost: ~$450
Website: www.mtnonprofit.org
🔥 7. Central Washington Conference for the Greater Good
This conference is a gem—small but mighty, deeply rooted in the communities it serves. Held annually in Toppenish, WA, at Heritage University, it draws around 200+ attendees and offers bilingual content in English and Spanish. It’s designed for nonprofits in rural and Central Washington communities, with a focus on equity, connection, and hands-on tools that strengthen organizations from the inside out.
The 2025 theme, Connected Roots. Collective Power, captured the spirit of the event beautifully. Participants gathered to build skills in fundraising, leadership, community advocacy, budgeting, and emotional resilience. Every workshop was built around action—and 100% of attendees reported they left with something they could immediately apply.
What sets this conference apart is its heart. From interactive workbooks to “Ask a Consultant” sessions to the Hive Mind Exchange, the format encourages collaboration, courage, and conversation. This is the conference where you not only take notes—you take next steps.
Date: June 2026
Location: Toppenish, WA
Cost: ~$125
Audience: ~210 participants from 120+ organizations
Website: www.centralwanonprofits.org
🔥 8. Idaho Annual Nonprofit Conference | Idaho Nonprofit Center
Hosted by the Idaho Nonprofit Center, this is the state’s flagship event for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, board members, and changemakers working across rural and urban communities. If you’re looking for inspiration, collaboration, and actionable tools to strengthen your organization, this two-day conference delivers.
What makes it special
One of the most memorable aspects of this event is the venue: JUMP (Jack’s Urban Meeting Place) in downtown Boise. With bold architecture, playful design, and yes—a three-story spiral slide that even adults can ride—JUMP brings a spirit of creativity and fun that’s rare in nonprofit conferences. It creates a lively, open energy that complements the serious learning happening in the rooms. The space alone makes it feel like you're attending something special—and still, the conference remains thoroughly professional and well-organized.
You’ll find breakout workshops on grants, equity, leadership, fundraising, and nonprofit operations—along with an exhibit hall, networking activities, and catered meals that invite conversation and collaboration. The 2025 theme, Stronger Together: Bridging the Sector, reflects the conference’s focus on connection, shared knowledge, and building capacity across Idaho.
Date: August 26–27, 2025
Location: JUMP, Boise, ID
Cost: ~$250 (members); ~$350 (non-members); higher for late registration
Audience: ~200+ nonprofit professionals
Website: www.idahononprofits.org
🔥 9. Nonprofit Marketing Summit | Community Boost
This is the go-to virtual event for nonprofit professionals who want to level up their storytelling, digital strategy, and donor engagement—without spending a dime. Hosted multiple times per year by Community Boost, the Nonprofit Marketing Summit draws thousands of attendees from around the world for high-quality sessions that are actionable, inspiring, and completely free.
It’s perfect for grant writers, fundraisers, and communications pros who wear many hats. Expect sessions on email marketing, website optimization, donor segmentation, content planning, and even AI for nonprofits. The speakers are generous, the content is current, and the format is fast-paced but digestible.
Whether you’re looking for tips on writing stronger donor appeals or want to experiment with new marketing tools, this summit delivers serious value with zero barrier to entry.
Date: Multiple sessions throughout 2025
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Website: www.nonprofitmarketingsummit.org
🔥 10. Cause Camp | Nonprofit Hub
Cause Camp isn’t just a conference—it’s an experience designed to re-energize nonprofit professionals who are ready to lead with clarity, creativity, and community. Hosted in Grand Rapids, MI, this two-day event blends practical skill-building with big-picture visioning in a retreat-like atmosphere.
You’ll find breakout sessions on fundraising, digital marketing, donor retention, strategic planning, and more—alongside curated networking, wellness touches, and the kind of hallway conversations that can change the trajectory of your work. The energy is uplifting, the audience is deeply mission-driven, and the space is intentionally designed to inspire.
If you’re craving a reset, fresh strategy, and a sense of community among nonprofit thought leaders and changemakers, this is your space.
Date: Fall 2025
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Cost: ~$400–$600
Website: www.cause.camp
🔥 11. Raise | OneCause
If you’re involved in fundraising events, donor engagement, or campaign planning, Raise is one of the most focused and forward-thinking conferences available. Hosted by OneCause, this event is designed to help nonprofits create more impactful events, strengthen donor relationships, and drive giving through smart, strategic storytelling.
Raise features sessions on donor behavior, inclusive fundraising, event technology, accessibility, and data-informed engagement strategies. Whether you’re planning galas, hybrid events, or smaller community-based gatherings, this conference offers a well-rounded toolkit. You’ll also hear from some of the top voices in the fundraising world—and leave with practical insights you can apply immediately.
It’s also CFRE-approved, so it’s a great way to earn continuing education credits while getting inspired by new ideas.
Date: Fall 2025
Location: TBD
Cost: ~$595–$995
Website: www.onecause.com/raise
🔥 12. Good Tech Fest
This is where nonprofit meets innovation—with intention. Good Tech Fest is a conference dedicated to exploring how technology can be used ethically and equitably to advance social good. It’s ideal for grant writers, program staff, evaluators, and nonprofit leaders who are curious about leveraging data, automation, and digital tools in ways that align with their mission.
Sessions cover everything from using AI responsibly to improving data systems, dashboards, and storytelling tools. The vibe is inclusive and forward-thinking, with a strong emphasis on community impact, sustainability, and digital equity.
Whether you're managing grant data, tracking program outcomes, or exploring how to integrate new tools without compromising your values, Good Tech Fest offers thoughtful content and practical guidance.
Date: Spring 2026
Location: Chicago, IL + Virtual
Cost: ~$250–$500
Website: www.goodtechfest.com
🔥 13. INSPIRE | Catholic Schools & Parishes Conference
Hosted by the Archdiocese of Seattle, INSPIRE is a two-day conference designed to ignite innovation and deepen mission-focused leadership in Catholic schools and parishes.
This isn’t just a gathering—it’s an energizing space of collaboration, strategy, and creativity. Attendees engage with nationally recognized and locally rooted leaders through dynamic keynotes and breakout sessions. Sessions cover:
Enhanced operational vitality (NSBECS Domain 4)
Grant writing, donor relationships & planned giving
Marketing strategies, enrollment management, volunteer engagement
AI best practices, data storytelling, brand identity, and more catholicliberaleducation.org+8My Catholic School+8Archdiocese of Seattle+8partnersinmission.com
INSPIRE anchors its value in community: two full days of learning (8 am–4 pm) at Seattle University, with breakfast and lunch provided each day . It’s free for Archdiocese of Seattle staff, and $250 for Catholic school staff from other dioceses. Optional campus housing is available.
If you work in Catholic education—admissions, development, finance, or leadership—INSPIRE offers a powerful blend of strategy and spirit. It’s a space where values and practices meet—and where fundraising, grant writing, and mission advancement thrive together.
Date: August 6–7, 2025
Location: Seattle University • Seattle, WA
Cost: Free (Archdiocese of Seattle staff); $250 (out-of-diocese staff); optional lodging ~$105/night
Website: mycatholicschool.org/inspire
✨ Final Thoughts
These events may be different in size and scope, but they all offer something powerful: space to reflect, learn, and grow alongside people who care about the same things you do.
At Spark the Fire, we believe that professional development should feed your spirit and your skills. If you attend any of these events, we’d love to hear about your experience—and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.