Small shifts, Big Impact: A welcome from our new Chair
In this welcome, Tracy Calcraft, Chair of the Fundraising Convention Board, reflects on how small shifts can create big impact for charities and fundraisers. She shares how this year’s Fundraising Convention programme supports fundraisers at every stage of their career, highlights emerging voices in the sector, and celebrates the collaboration, learning and innovation shaping the future of fundraising.
Stepping into the role of Chair of the Fundraising Convention Board this year is both a privilege and a responsibility I take seriously.
After several hugely enjoyable years as a member of the Board, I’ve seen first-hand the care, debate and dedication that goes into curating a Convention programme that is relevant, progressive and genuinely impactful for our fundraising community. To now lead this talented team of volunteer fundraisers - each bringing deep expertise and different perspectives - is something I’m incredibly proud to do.
Fundraising is, and always has been, a rewarding career. It’s one where individuals can make a long-lasting impact - not only for the causes we serve, but for society as a whole. Convention exists to support that journey. Whether you are just starting out or leading strategy at the highest level, there is always more to learn, new thinking to explore, and fresh connections to make.
Curating a programme for the whole community
This year, I’ve worked closely with the Board and CIOF staff team to ensure we’ve created a balanced and forward-looking programme. Together, we’ve focused on building learning tracks that reflect the breadth of our profession - making space for both established voices and those newer to the sector who are challenging, innovating and reshaping it.
The Convention Board is deeply responsive to feedback from delegates and the wider sector. We listen carefully to what you tell us - about skills gaps, emerging challenges, and the issues that matter most right now. That spirit of openness and collaboration is one of the things I value most about serving on this Board.
I’m especially excited to see a new crop of Rising Stars stepping onto our stages this year. Creating space for emerging talent is vital if we are serious about moving the sector forward. Alongside this, I’m delighted that we’re repeating the successful Early Career Fundraiser package and offering a series of bursaries, helping to ensure that Convention remains accessible and inclusive.
I’m hugely grateful to the CIOF volunteer Groups who have offered bursaries, and to our sponsors, whose continued support enables us to deliver an ambitious and high-quality event for our community.
Small shifts, Big impact
Our 2026 theme - Small shifts, Big impact - reflects something I believe deeply about fundraising.
Not every transformation requires a wholesale reinvention. Sometimes it’s a subtle change in mindset. A small tweak to an ask. A shift in policy. A smarter allocation of spend. A braver conversation. An adjustment to how we measure success.
When we explore these shifts together - grounded in evidence, lived experience and innovation - we unlock improvements that can significantly strengthen our results and our resilience.
My hope is that delegates will come to Convention with an open and enquiring mind. Be curious. Be generous in sharing your own learning. Be willing to test assumptions. The fundraising sector thrives when we collectively embrace development - not just for our organisations, but for ourselves as professionals.
A safe, welcoming space to grow
One of the things I value most about Fundraising Convention is the environment it creates. It is a place to learn, connect and share in a way that feels safe and welcoming. A space where you can challenge ideas respectfully, celebrate success openly, and leave with renewed energy and purpose.
As Chair, I feel a strong responsibility to ensure Convention reflects the diversity of thought and experience within our community - and that everyone feels they belong. When we create space for different perspectives, we all grow stronger.
I truly believe fundraising is a career that can change lives - including our own. It demands resilience, creativity and integrity, but it offers meaning, impact and connection in return. If this year’s Convention helps even a small shift take root in your work - one that leads to a big impact for your cause - then we will have achieved something worthwhile.
I look forward to welcoming you. Let’s come together to learn, connect, share and shape the future of fundraising - one small shift at a time.