Sector Forward Conference

Hear and learn from nonprofit industry experts on topics that will elevate your organization.

Pioneering nonprofit excellence

by connecting nonprofits to

the tools they need to succeed.

Sector Forward 2024

This dynamic gathering brings together leaders, visionaries, and change-makers from various organizations to explore cutting-edge strategies, share best practices, and build collaborative networks. With a focus on empowering nonprofits of all sizes, the conference offers an array of workshops, keynote speeches, and panel discussions designed to equip attendees with the tools and knowledge necessary to elevate their impact and drive meaningful community change.

Conference Agenda ↯

  • Reception

    September 27th, 8:00AM - 8:30AM

    Join fellow attendees for a delightful breakfast spread, providing the perfect opportunity to fuel up and network before the day's sessions begin.

  • Session 1

    September 27th, 9:00AM - 11:30AM

    The Speaker Track features inspiring talks from nonprofit leaders, while the Workshop Track offers interactive, hands-on sessions.

  • Lunch & Keynote

    September 27th, 11:30AM - 12:30PM

    Enjoy a refreshing lunch break while connecting with fellow attendees, followed by an inspiring keynote address from a distinguished leader in the nonprofit sector.

  • Tabling & Activity

    September 27th, 12:30PM - 1:00PM

    Engage with exhibitors and discover new opportunities for your nonprofit. Participate in our exciting Scavenger Hunt by visiting each table to collect stamps.

  • Session 2 & Close

    September 27th, 1:00PM - 3:30PM

    The Speaker Track features inspiring talks from nonprofit leaders, while the Workshop Track offers interactive, hands-on sessions.

Meet the Leaders

Fadriena Sutton

Eddie Loumiet

Julia Holly

Cecka Rose

Robert Blacklidge

Rich Smith

Linda Bond Edwards

Cindy Holmes

Agenda Breakdown

Agenda Breakdown

Session #1:  9AM - 11:30AM

✎ Workshop Track

Choose this track to select between two workshops provided by industry experts:

Workshop One

Nonprofit Business Strategy with Rich Smith

Workshop Two

Financial Management

✎ Speaker Track

Choose this track to hear from industry leaders and changemakers:

Speaker One

9AM - 9:35AM

Storytelling with Erin Philpot 

Panel One

9:35AM 10:15AM

Status of Nonprofits in the Ecosystem with COCA, INIE, FNA, & CSC 

Speaker Two

10:15AM - 10:50AM

Timeline Management with Julia Holly

Panel Two

10:50AM - 11:30AM

What makes a Successful Nonprofit with Second Harvest, Fadriena Sutton 

Lunch + Keynote Speaker

11:30AM - 12:30PM

Enjoy connecting with leaders and attendees over a revitalizing lunch! Hear from a nonprofit lobbyist to discuss the legislative impact affecting the nonprofit sector today.

Tabling + Scavenger Hunt

12:30PM - 1:00PM

Take a look at local organizations and businesses who can help your nonprofit thrive. Visit each one to get a stamp and enter a prize raffle! Winners announced during closing statements.

Session #2:  1PM - 3:30PM

✎ Workshop Track

This afternoon workshop track will offer both workshops.

Workshop One

1:00PM - 2:10PM

Marketing - Digital & Print Products with Jeremy Cohen

Workshop Two

2:15PM - 3:30PM

Operations, Systems, & Applications with Robert Blacklidge

✎ Speaker Track

Choose this track to hear from industry leaders and changemakers:

Speaker One

1:00PM - 1:35PM

Data Analysis with Eddie Loumiet 

Panel One

1:35PM - 2:15PM

Who Should Be on Your Board with Linda B. Edwards, Rich Smith

Speaker Two

2:15PM - 2:50PM

Grant Writing with Cindy Holmes

Panel Two

2:50PM - 3:30PM

What I Wish I Knew - Common Nonprofit Mistakes with leading consultants.