Association of Fundraising Consultants and Freelancers Conference 2024
The AFCF's annual conference took place this week with the aim of bringing together fundraising consultants and freelancers to learn how to grow their business, find new clients, manage workloads and stay updated on the latest trends in giving.
This year's AFCF conference was the first time it was run as a full-day event. The aim was to offer something relevant for experienced consultants as well as those new to the sector, and from the feedback received was it was a resounding success!
The high-calibre speaker line-up included Caroline Underwood OBE who spoke about her journey in setting up her consultancy and Clare Sweeney, who discussed social value and how the impact of new legislation on not-for-profits and corporate partnerships, and how consultants (and freelancers) can play a key role.
There was also a panel, chaired by IFCo Chair, Bill King, which saw panelists speak about their experience of working with consultants. Peter Rowbottom from World Horse Welfare, Susan Walton from the CERGE-El Foundation and Chris Lincoln from MiExact talked about what they look for when choosing a consultant, how to develop long term relationships with clients, and what consultants should avoid doing.
The afternoon saw AFCF Board Member, Jonathan Cook set out a few things he wished he’d known when he set up as a consultant. The floor was then opened up for questions with the whole of the AFCF board on the stage. Questions included time management, working with associates and difficult conversations with clients.
The day ended with ‘speed dating’. Board member Ben Morrison took control, ringing a bell every 4 minutes, to swap partners. Participants discussed specialities and areas of expertise. It was hoped that new connections will have been forged and the potential for collaboration increased.
If you are a fundraising consultant or freelancer and would like to find out more about AFCF, visit: https://afcf.org.uk/.