Event Recap: AFP ICON 2026

More than 3,000 fundraising professionals from across the globe came together in San Diego, California, April 26-28, for AFP ICON 2026 — three energizing days of learning, dialogue, and connection at the heart of our profession.

From thought‑provoking general sessions to practical takeaways shared in hallways, workshops, and receptions, ICON 2026 offered a space to think boldly about the future while staying grounded in the values and relationships that sustain our work.

San Diego proved to be a vibrant and welcoming host city. Its coastal setting and dynamic energy provided the perfect backdrop for thoughtful conversation, new ideas, and meaningful connections at the world’s largest gathering of fundraising professionals.

AFP Global board chair Roger Ali, MBA, C.Dir., CFRE opened ICON by welcoming attendees into a shared moment — one rooted in connection, generosity of spirit, and the responsibility leaders carry in shaping the culture of the profession. Drawing on his own journey into fundraising, Roger reflected on the importance of creating environments where people feel invited in, seen, and supported.

That message carried forward as AFP president and CEO Art Taylor took the stage to introduce FORGE — a values‑driven framework grounded in Forgiveness, Openness, Respect, Grace, and Empathy. Designed to help operationalize AFP’s IDEA commitments, FORGE offers shared language and accountability for how the association leads, supports members, and strengthens the profession for the long term.

The opening keynote speaker, futurist Jamais Cascio, challenged attendees to reframe uncertainty and change. Introducing the concept of the BANI future — Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible — Jamais explored how fundraisers can respond with flexibility and intention by becoming Bendable, Attentive, Neuroflexible, and Interconnected. His message offered both clarity and optimism, reminding us that while the future may be chaotic, it is also full of possibility.

Throughout the conference, those big ideas were paired with deeply human conversations. Sessions sparked dialogue that continued well beyond meeting rooms, as attendees wrestled honestly with where the profession is heading and how to carry ICON’s energy into their organizations and communities.

We were also proud to honor the 2026 AFP Awards for Philanthropy recipients, recognizing individuals whose leadership, ingenuity, and commitment exemplify the very best of our profession. Their stories reminded us of the transformative power of giving and the impact fundraisers make every day by strengthening trust and building relationships. 

Beyond the conference center walls, ICON 2026 delivered unforgettable opportunities to connect. One highlight was the AFP San Diego Chapter party at Petco Park, where attendees gathered to enjoy great food, great company, and a Padres win under the lights. It was a joyful evening that captured the spirit of ICON — shared experiences, new friendships, and the simple fun of being together.

AFP ICON 2026 closed with a powerful general session focused on the enduring human connections that make philanthropy possible. Tiffany Quivers, EdM, Cherian Koshy, CFRE, CAP, ACFRE, Ben Mohler, M.A., CFRE, ACFRE, and Lynne M. Wester each explored a different dimension of that work — from courage and generosity to advocacy, trust, gratitude, and care.

Together, their voices reinforced a shared truth: even as fundraising evolves alongside technology and innovation, it remains deeply relational at its core.

In their closing remarks, Roger Ali, MBA, C.Dir., CFRE and Art Taylor reflected on the momentum created at ICON and the importance of sustaining it year‑round — particularly through AFP’s chapters. Chapters, they emphasized, are where relationships deepen, confidence grows, and many members begin their leadership journeys within the profession.

A heartfelt thank‑you goes out to our generous sponsors and dedicated exhibitors, whose partnership helped make AFP ICON 2026 possible and strengthened the experience for attendees.

And most importantly, thank you to the AFP community who showed up with openness, curiosity, and care. The conversations and connections built at ICON continue to shape the future of philanthropy, long after the conference ends.

We look forward to carrying this momentum forward together. Join us in Baltimore April 11-13 for AFP ICON 2027!

AFP Exchange Connections Card Challenge

254 AFP ICON attendees completed the AFP EXCHANGE Connections Card challenge! Congratulations to our lucky winners:

• One Hulken Signature Rolling Tote Bag filled with goodies provided by Greater Giving (booth #318): Alex S.
• Choice of $500 to either American Airlines or Marriott Bonvoy provided by Mitch-Stuart, Inc. (booth #800): Alexa T.
• Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones provided by TapKat Solutions LLC (booth #513): Erin S.
• $250 American Express gift card provided by Winspire (booth #833): Ellen R.
• One full-year QuickAction team account for the winner’s entire development office (all gift officers included), an iPad, and a personal 90-minute AI Strategy Session for Fundraising with Jonathan Bilima, Founder of QuickAction (booth #845): Ariana F.
• $250 American Express gift card provided by Ballantine (booth #931): Kate B. F.
• A “Fuel for Funding Your Mission” including a Starbucks gift card and other goodies provided by Infinite Giving (booth #314): Anita R.

AFP ICONic Adventure 2026 (Mobile App Game) Top Scorers

12 AFP ICON attendees accrued the maximum number of points in the AFP ICONic Adventure mobile app game! Congratulations to our top scorers (in alphabetical order):

• Amber B.
• Kerry C.
• Teresa C.
• Grace C.
• Carly E.
• Daniel E.
• Ryan F.
• Diana G.
• Carly K.
• Inez M.
• Cassandra S.
• Chloe T.

More about AFP ICON 2026:

• CFRE Education Point Tracker
• ACFRE Education Point Tracker
• Mi experiencia en ICON 2026 (Recap from AFP Mexico Members)
• Canadians Reflect on their Experience of ICON 2026 / Les Canadiens et Canadiennes partagent leur expérience de l'ICON 2026
• Thriving in a Chaotic Future: Though our original keynote Dr. Bob Johansen was not able to attend, you can read this Advancing Philanthropy interview between him and AFP president & CEO Art Taylor. 
• AFP ICON 2026 Youth in Philanthropy Award: Middleton Meals Matter shares their acceptance on Youtube
• Inflation, Cuts, Tax Changes: A Tough Year Takes Center Stage at AFP ICON: (Chronicle of Philanthropy - Free Login Required)
• New Nonprofit Tech Unveiled At AFP ICON (The NonProfit Times)
• Lessons Learned at AFP ICON: Navigating AI in the Nonprofit Sector (Amy Eisenstein)
• More thoughts from attendees on LinkedIn