Events
We’re stronger together. That’s why Independent Sector focuses on building community among the individuals and organizations that are dedicated to a healthy, equitable society for all. Our events, including our national summit, are designed to build connections, share knowledge, and nurture leadership. Join us and changemakers from around our nation.
When the IRS Comes Calling: What Every Nonprofit Needs to Know About Audits
Webinar | Thursday, July 30, 2026, 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET
No one wants to be audited, but every nonprofit can and should be prepared. Join Morgan Lewis attorneys Randall Thomas and Maya Hairston and Independent Sector’s Policy and Corporate Counsel, Esther Gyory, for this overview of the IRS audit process, your rights during an audit, best practices that you can adopt now, and information on how to find pro bono legal resources.
Note: This event is exclusively for Independent Sector members. Learn more about joining our community.
Member Masterclass: The New Era of Foundation Funding
Virtual | Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM ET
If you want to succeed with major private grants, it takes a new understanding of the landscape and a willingness to change with the trends. Join Susan Schaefer, author of *Major Grants* on Substack, as she shares strategies that can transform how you approach your top-tier foundation prospects and position your organization for success in today’s evolving funding environment.
Note: This event is exclusively for Independent Sector members. Learn more about joining our community.
AI & Nonprofits: The View from Within and Without
Webinar | Thursday, August 20, 2026, 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET
Join Independent Sector, NTEN, and The Bridgespan Group for a discussion of nonprofits and AI as we review findings from two surveys: a joint NTEN/Bridgespan survey of nonprofit workers and leaders about how they are using AI and an Independent Sector survey of the American public’s opinions about nonprofits using AI. These findings will inform a broader conversation with audience Q&A about how nonprofits are meeting this moment.
Masterclass: Our Sector, Our Voice
In College Park, MD | Tuesday, September 1, 2026, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM ET
Independent Sector’s first in-person Masterclass is designed for nonprofit professionals, advocacy and governance teams, activists, and anyone looking to strengthen their advocacy efforts. Join us for a day of learning, engagement, and networking.
Independent Sector’s National Summit 2026
In Phoenix, AZ | October 13-16, 2026
Independent Sector’s National Summit 2026 will bring together nonprofit, philanthropic, and corporate giving professionals from across the country to imagine — and build — a better future together. Our theme, The Future We Build Together, emphasizes co-creation, shared leadership, and collective momentum. It recognizes that when organizations across the charitable sector unite, we advance equity, resilience, and lasting change.
15th Symposium on Public Policy for Nonprofits
Virtual | Friday, February 19, 2027
The Symposium on Public Policy for Nonprofits brings together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore key questions and issues related to public policy affecting nonprofits and philanthropy. The 2027 symposium will explore how organizations and the charitable sector as a whole are weathering current challenges.
Co-hosted with the Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA) and Nonprofit Policy Forum.
