Chicago Area Chapter: Grants Success Conference 2026

Join us on April 24, 2026 at Impact House in Chicago for the 2026 Grant Success Conference, a full day designed to help grant professionals move from reactive writing to strategic leadership. This year’s theme centers on intentional systems, sustainable growth, and meaningful funder engagement. From Mandy Pearce’s energizing keynote, Grant Processes and Systems: Optimizing for Success, to deep dives into pricing your services, unlocking the power of donor-advised funds, strengthening grassroots infrastructure, and mastering influence through personality science, each session equips you with practical tools you can implement immediately. The day culminates in a dynamic funder panel tackling today’s most pressing questions about relationship-building, community impact, and navigating funding without open RFPs. Whether you’re a new grant writer building your foundation or an advanced consultant refining your strategy, this conference is built to sharpen your planning, strengthen your positioning, and expand your professional toolkit. Expect actionable frameworks, candid insights from seasoned experts, rich peer networking across sectors, and conversations that elevate both your craft and your confidence. If you’re ready to plan smarter, engage funders more effectively, and build grant systems that sustain success, register today.