Investing in the Future: The Power of AFP Scholarships

AFP membership offers a wealth of benefits, but time and again, members highlight the importance of educational opportunities—conferences, in-person trainings, and webinars, as the most important. These professional development events provide invaluable resources for thousands of fundraisers and nonprofit professionals, helping them build skills, stay updated on industry trends, and forge essential networks that support their work.

While events like AFP ICON and AFP LEAD offer tremendous value, the costs of registration, travel, and accommodations can be barriers, particularly for those just starting in the field. That’s where the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy (The Foundation) steps in, committed to making these experiences more accessible through scholarships. Each year, hundreds of professionals receive support to attend key events, thanks to programs such as the Chamberlain Scholarship, Diverse Communities in Fundraising Scholarships, the Blackbaud Development Fund Diversity Scholarships, Levy Collegiate Scholarships, and LEAD Scholarships.

These scholarships are an investment in the future of the nonprofit sector. For those who receive them, the benefits are far-reaching. Attendees at conferences like ICON and AFP LEAD consistently report that the most valuable aspect is not just the sessions and learning opportunities, but the chance to build relationships with others in the field. Whether through formal networking events or informal conversations, these interactions create a professional community where best practices are shared, challenges are discussed, and lasting connections are formed.

The benefits are multiplied when the participants represent a broad range of interests, experiences, and backgrounds. Different perspectives spark innovative ideas and solutions, and these exchanges would often not occur without the in-person interactions fostered by conferences. While much of our work has shifted online, there is still no substitute for meeting face-to-face, forging stronger bonds and collaborations that benefit the sector long after the event concludes.

The Foundation’s scholarships, funded by generous donations, some from large nonprofits across the country like Clemson University and UT Health Houston, play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals from all walks of life and corners of the nonprofit sector can attend these key gatherings. By covering the costs for professionals who might otherwise be unable to participate, these scholarships broaden the reach of AFP’s educational programs and ensure that the sector remains inclusive and diverse.

Kevin Foyle, senior vice president at UT Health Houston said, “Empowering future leaders through scholarships in fundraising transforms individual lives, strengthens our community, and cultivates a culture of philanthropy, ensuring that generosity and compassion thrive for generations to come.”

Several large nonprofit organizations have made significant contributions to support these scholarships, recognizing that investing in the professional development of fundraisers is an investment in the future of the sector. The Chamberlain Scholarship, for example, enables those who have never attended AFP ICON to take part in this transformative experience, while the Diverse Communities in Fundraising Scholarships help ensure that AFP programs address diversity-related issues and foster an inclusive environment for all professionals.

Missy Ryan Penland, MPA, Senior Associate Vice President for Development at Clemson University shared, “Clemson’s ability to remain a best-in-class university depends on a strong advancement team. We, like many large organizations, struggle with the shrinking pool of fundraising professionals and realize that we can make an impact on our future success by investing in The Foundation’s scholarship programs. It is a win-win for Clemson and the sector overall.”

These scholarships are more than just financial assistance—they are an investment in the future leaders of the nonprofit world. By helping professionals attend conferences and build their knowledge, the scholarship programs directly strengthen the sector’s ability to attract and retain talent. As highlighted in previous discussions, there is a growing shortage of fundraising professionals ready to step into leadership roles, and investing in their development is crucial to meeting the challenges ahead.

Moreover, a robust scholarship program ensures that the nonprofit sector continues to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves. It is vital that we remain committed to nurturing an inclusive and equitable sector—one that is responsive to the needs of all people, regardless of background.

Collectively, we need to ensure the nonprofit sector is strong. Ultimately, the impact of these scholarships is felt not only by the recipients but by the entire sector. When we invest in the professional development of fundraisers, we are investing in the future capacity and effectiveness of the organizations they lead. Stronger leaders mean stronger nonprofits, and stronger nonprofits mean a more significant impact on the future of the communities we serve.

Supporting the AFP Foundation’s scholarship programs is more than a contribution to an individual—it’s an investment in the future of philanthropy. Together, we can ensure that today’s professionals are equipped to lead tomorrow’s nonprofit sector, creating lasting change in the world.

Please consider contributing to the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and help shape the future of our profession.