Conference Theme:
Passport to Partnerships
Conference Theme Description:
Partnerships are the foundation of our sector's success. Whether collaborating across internal teams, joining forces with industry leaders, working closely with vendors, or engaging donors and their advisors, strategic partnerships open up a world of new possibilities. Creating these connections can build organizational capacity, amplify impact, expand our reach through shared networks, and create a meaningful community. At #ADRPMontreal, you will explore how partnerships can drive innovation and excellence in donor relations—consider this your official passport to a journey of discovery.
Conference Discovery Areas
1. Charting the Landmarks of Donor Relations
Every great expedition begins with a solid itinerary. Guide the voyage for new donor relations professionals as they explore the essential landmarks of donor relations—gift acceptance, acknowledgment practices, and lifecycle management, and more—to ensure pathways to retention and trust.
Topics could include: Acknowledgement Practices, Building Trust & Transparency, Donor Behavior, Donor Lifecycle Management, Donor Retention, Ethics, Gift Acceptance, Generational Giving, and more.
2. Recognition that Transcends Borders
Meaningful donor recognition goes beyond a single moment—it creates lasting connections that span time and distance. Whether celebrating a milestone or charting a course for deeper engagement, these sessions will help you uncover hidden opportunities and create donor recognition that feels truly rewarding and unique.
Topics could include: Affinity Groups, Building Corporate & Foundation Partnerships, Capital Campaign Recognition, Donor Engagement, Donor Recognition, Donor Surveys, Donor Walls, Naming Opportunities, Personalization, Special Events, Stewardship Activities, and more.
3. Messages that Guide the Donor Journey
In a world full of noise, it’s crucial that our messages don’t get lost at sea. Through storytelling, reporting, and marketing, we can craft clear and compelling narratives that resonate with donors and inspire them to embark on a shared journey. These sessions will chart a course to enhance your organization’s communication strategies, creating pathways that engage and build lasting connections with supporters, while driving mission-driven impact.
Topics could include: Crisis Communications, Digital Storytelling, Donor Communications, Impact Reports, Inclusive Marketing, Multi-Channel Communications, Narrative Models, Publications & Annual Reports, and more.
4. Mapping Success: Navigating Partnerships and Resilience
Every successful journey is defined by the paths we take and the partnerships we build along the way. These sessions will focus on improving vital connections with donors, project partners, and staff. Explore strategies for improving cross-team collaboration, developing inclusive leadership, and building resilience that will drive long-term change.
Topics could include: Career Growth, Cross-Functional Partnerships, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), Leadership, Management, Professional Development, Resilience, Team Building, Volunteer & Board Relations, and more.
5. Navigating the Numbers
Equip attendees with the tools to chart a data-driven course for success. Just as planning is key to any great adventure, understanding and leveraging data ensures donor relations strategies are impactful and efficient, measuring donor retention, crafting dashboards, mapping metrics to mission impact, and using predictive analytics to stay ahead of trends. Share the best ways to align numbers to the organizational vision to create lasting partnerships.
Topics could include: Dashboards & Data Visualization, Data Analytics & Trend Analysis, Measuring Donor Retention, Strategic Planning, Metrics & Impact Mapping, Predictive Analytics, ROI & Optimization, Strategic Adaptation, and more.
6. Uncharted Territories: Finding Creative Solutions
Pack your bags with bold new solutions as we embark on an exciting journey as donor relations trailblazers. These sessions are all about harnessing excitement and anticipation with innovation, technology and creative problem-solving. Through digital tools like AI and automation, show attendees how they can ensure their strategies are future-proof and sustainable.
Topics could include: AI & Automation, Creative Problem-Solving, Digital Innovations, Exploring Emerging Tools, Fundraising Trends, Leveraging & Integrating Technology, Sustainability Practices, and more.
How To Draft a Great RFP
Using the categories above as a guide, we encourage proposals that reflect the expansive depth and breadth of donor relations and address the realities of today’s workplace.
Thank you for your careful and thoughtful effort in crafting a proposal for this year’s ADRP conference.
We look forward to seeing you in Montreal, September 16-19, 2025.
Before submitting your proposal to present at the ARDP International Conference, please gather the following information. We encourage you to review and prepare your materials in advance to ensure a smooth submission process.
The individual submitting the speaker proposal will be designated as the primary Point of Contact. For proposals with multiple speakers, we will communicate directly with the Point of Contact if any questions arise or if additional information is needed.
Speakers selected for the ADRP International Conference will have their name, bio, and headshot featured on the conference website and app. Additionally, selected speakers will receive a registration discount. Speakers are responsible for any additional expenses, including travel and lodging.
