Beyond the Buzzwords: Real Talk on What Works (and What Doesn’t) in Modern Fundraising

Every year, the nonprofit world races to keep up with new fundraising trends — AI-driven personalization, omnichannel journeys, predictive analytics, and the next “must-test” digital tactic. But what’s actually working? What’s just flashy? And how can we tell the difference before budgets and time are wasted chasing hype?

This candid and conversational session brings together seasoned experts from leading fundraising agencies, alongside a nonprofit voice that’s in the trenches every day. Moderated by Chris Brooks, Vice President of Membership and Direct Response Fundraising at the League of Conservation Voters, this dynamic discussion will explore what’s truly moving the needle across digital, direct mail, and integrated channels.

Chris will challenge agency leaders to back up their bold ideas with real results, grounding every conversation in data, ROI, and donor experience. Together, the panel will unpack what keeps them up at night, what genuinely excites them about the future, and how they’re leveraging data and AI to work smarter, not just faster.

Expect lively debate, honest reflection, and practical takeaways that go beyond jargon. The format blends quick insights with guided discussion and audience Q&A, ensuring a dynamic exchange of ideas between the stage and the room.

Whether you’re an agency strategist or a nonprofit practitioner, you’ll leave this session with a clear sense of what’s working now, where to experiment next, and how to avoid the costly traps of trend-chasing, all through the lens of collaboration, curiosity, and results.