SAVE The Date - AFP St. Louis Gateway Conference on Philanthropy
August 26-27, 2026
Location: Coming Soon!
The Evolving Fundraiser: Leadership Growth and Professional Excellence in Philanthropy
About the Conference
As philanthropy continues to evolve, today’s fundraisers must grow as leaders, learners, and strategic partners. The Evolving Fundraiser centers on professional development, leadership readiness, and lifelong excellence in the fundraising profession.
Designed with CFRE expectations in mind, this two-day conference will equip fundraisers at every career stage with practical guidance for managing teams, partnering effectively with boards and executives, and building resilient, future-ready careers in philanthropy. Through engaging plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and peer learning, attendees will explore the skills, strategies, and ethical frameworks needed to lead with confidence in a changing philanthropic landscape.
Who Should Attend
The Gateway for Philanthropy Conference is designed for:
- Fundraising professionals at all career stages
- CFREs and CFRE candidates
- Development leaders and managers
- Emerging leaders seeking professional growth
- Executives and board partners invested in fundraising excellence
What to Expect
- Two full days of professional development and networking
- Sessions aligned with CFRE Knowledge Domains
- Practical tools and real-world insights you can apply immediately
- Content focused on leadership, ethics, strategy, and sustainability
- Opportunities to connect with peers across sectors and experience levels
Conference Topics May Include
- Leadership development and career pathways
- Ethical fundraising and donor-centered practice
- Managing and leading high-performing teams
- Board and executive partnerships
- Strategic planning and organizational impact
- Stewardship, sustainability, and long-term donor engagement
- Emerging trends and best practices in philanthropy
Call for Proposals (RFP)
AFP Greater St. Louis invites fundraising professionals and thought leaders to submit workshop proposals aligned with The Evolving Fundraiser theme.
- RFP Opens: February 2026. Deadline is April 15, 2026.
- Sessions should reflect CFRE competencies and support professional growth, leadership development, and ethical practice in philanthropy.
Details and Submission Guidelines View form Here
Registration Information
- Registration Opens: May 15, 2026
2026 Ticket Pricing
Early Bird (May 15th through June 19th)
Member: $235
Non-member: $260
Group Rate (10 Tickets): $2,200
Regular Pricing (After June 19th)
Member: $265
Non-member: $310
Students: $89
Group Rate (10 Tickets): $2,500
CFRE Continuing Education
The Gateway for Philanthropy Conference is designed to offer sessions eligible for CFRE Continuing Education credit, supporting fundraisers committed to professional excellence and ongoing learning.
Sponsorship Opportunities – Coming Soon
Sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 Gateway for Philanthropy Conference will be available soon.
Conference sponsorship provides meaningful visibility with fundraising professionals across the St. Louis region and demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence, ethical philanthropy, and leadership development within the nonprofit sector.
Details on sponsorship levels, benefits, and pricing will be announced in the coming months.
Stay Connected
Additional details—including location, keynote speakers, and session highlights—will be announced in the coming months. Check back often for updates.
