Call for Speakers & Presenters – AFP COMPASS 2026 … Learn, Connect, Transform

Thank you for your interest in presenting at AFP COMPASS 2026, to be held on May 3-5, 2026  at the Carriage House Hotel and Conference Centre in Calgary, Alberta.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL(S) THROUGH THIS LINK

AFP Calgary & Area Chapter invites proposals from fundraisers, sector leaders, and changemakers to present at AFP COMPASS 2026, a three-day fundraising conference designed to inform, inspire, and connect professionals across the charitable and nonprofit sector. With six keynote sessions, more than 15 break-out sessions, an exhibit hall, and dedicated networking opportunities—including our Boot Scoot and Schmooze celebration— AFP COMPASS 2026 offers a dynamic learning environment grounded in connection, community, and practical impact.

This application is for speakers interested in presenting concurrent sessions, which can be up to 75 minutes in duration. All costs associated with presenting (travel, accommodations etc.) are the responsibility of the presenter(s). Any presenter that would like to attend other sessions must register separately for the conference – a special conference registration rate for speakers will open in February 2026 offering a 50% discount on the registration fee.

Submit your proposal today to help us create an exceptional program and fantastic learning experience. You may submit up to 3 proposals for this year’s conference. The deadline for nominations is MONDAY FEBRUARY 16, 2026. All submissions will be notified by March 1st of the results. 

We welcome proposals from individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences, including first-time speakers, emerging professionals, and voices that are underrepresented in our sector. Presentations may draw from professional expertise, research, case studies, or lived experience, and should offer practical insights participants can apply within their organizations and communities.

To help guide submissions, session proposals are invited across the following learning tracks:

• Fundraising Strategy & Innovation – Annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, data, digital fundraising, and emerging trends
• Leadership, Management & Governance – Executive leadership, board relations, organizational culture, and change management
• Equity, Inclusion & Community-Centred Fundraising – Inclusive practices, ethical fundraising, Indigenous and equity-informed approaches, and community engagement
• Communications, Marketing & Storytelling – Donor communications, brand, digital engagement, and impact storytelling
• Career Development & Professional Growth – Early-career pathways, leadership development, mentorship, and skills-building
• Partnerships & External Relations – Corporate partnerships, government relations, sponsorship, and cross-sector collaboration