Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research
Apra Fundamentals: Prospect Research focuses on the four key areas of prospect development: campaigns, prospect research, prospect management and data science. It also explores fundraising terms and technologies as well as techniques and resources for finding and analyzing biographical, background and financial information; introduces participants to corporate and foundation research; and delves into how available data can be used to formulate gift capacities and inform fundraising operations. In addition, the program covers guiding concepts related to prospect research, such as navigating ethical considerations in conducting research, best practices for managing and reporting prospect data and creating quality research products.
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Apra Fundamentals: Relationship Management
Apra Fundamentals: Relationship Management is a foundational program designed for fundraising professionals new to the industry who want to build a strong understanding of relationship management, portfolio optimization and strategic donor engagement. This is a great opportunity for new professionals in prospect development who want to gain a strong foundation in relationship management or anyone seeking practical strategies to improve relationship management, portfolio optimization and collaboration between prospect development and frontline fundraisers.
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Data Science Now
Data is everywhere in fundraising, but how do we use it to drive results? Data Science Now is a one-day, hands-on event designed for anyone who works with data in fundraising, from beginners looking to build confidence to seasoned professionals seeking fresh perspectives. The sessions focus on practical strategies that you can immediately apply in your organization, regardless of your level of technical expertise.
Fundraising analytics leaders will break down key concepts, methodologies and real-world applications, helping you turn data into action in meaningful ways. Whether you’re exploring basic analytics, diving into data visualization or curious about advanced techniques like AI and machine learning, this event is designed to give you tools and ideas you can use right away and a roadmap for further learning.
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Emerging Leaders Cohort
Apra has heard the request for additional programming for mid-level leaders and is excited to introduce the Emerging Leaders Cohort at PD 2025. The Emerging Leaders Cohort is designed for professionals in prospect development with three or more years of experience who are seeking to expand their leadership skills and grow their impact within their organizations. This program is ideal for individuals who are developing their strategic thinking, leading projects or teams and looking to enhance their ability to influence and inspire.
Participants will gather at Prospect Development 2025 for an interactive program featuring discussion-based learning, peer-to-peer engagement and expert-led facilitation. Conversations will center on the core skills of leadership, the evolving challenges within prospect development and philanthropy and practical strategies for stepping into leadership roles.
Modeled after Apra's Executive Leadership Cohort, this program provides a highly collaborative space for emerging leaders to build their networks, gain new insights and develop confidence in their leadership potential. If you aspire to take the next step in your career and do not yet meet the criteria for the Executive Leadership Cohort, this program is a perfect fit!
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Executive Leadership Cohort
The Executive Leadership Cohort (ELC) is intended for those individuals who are senior leaders in prospect development and who set new directions while motivating and inspiring their teams and colleagues. Specifically, ELC targets individuals who actively impart knowledge and externally advocate for the industry, have been working in the fundraising field for 10 years or more, or have risen into leadership roles in development.
This targeted group will meet during Prospect Development 2025, participating in a set of discussions that will focus on the issues that prospect development and philanthropy face today, as well as the challenges that leaders deal with in their organizations in addition to their own careers. The program will be highly interactive, providing attendees with content, networking and peer-to-peer learning that will enable them to better understand the value of leadership, and will include a set of open conversations facilitated by Apra members and career professionals. Discussions will be attendee-driven, framed within the context of strategic leadership and an understanding of the responsibilities of a leader.
Attendees of ELC will be invited to join the online community of past ELC participants to encourage year-round connections and conversation.
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