Session: Mind the Gap: Co-Creating a Fundraising Data Foundation

Calling all fundraisers – this is a session you won’t want to miss.

We know that data can often feel like the missing link in our work - something we all know we need, but can struggle to access, analyse or action. 

That’s why, this year, Charities Institute Ireland commissioned brand new research to get to the heart of what’s really happening with fundraising data in our sector.

For the first time, we now have a baseline: a clear picture of where we stand - how we’re performing, what challenges we’re facing, and where the opportunities lie when it comes to using data to drive fundraising success.

Whether your organisation is just starting out on its data journey or already investing in data capacity and strategy, the findings from this research will resonate. It’s packed with real-world insights, drawn from both numbers and narratives, and highlights the bold ambition of fundraisers across Ireland navigating a rapidly changing landscape.

This is more than just a report - it’s a foundation. One that fundraisers, leadership teams and boards can use to make smarter decisions and advocate for stronger support. It’s also the first step in building something bigger: a sector-wide understanding of what good data practice looks like and how we can collectively raise the bar.

Your voice has helped shape this work - and now, we’re inviting you to be part of what comes next.

Join Cian Murphy and Jane Trenamen for this first reveal of the findings, connect with your peers, and help us shape the future of data-informed fundraising in Ireland. With your continued involvement, we’ll go deeper into performance metrics, KPIs, and the tools that really make a difference.

Cian Murphy

Cian Murphy is Co Managing Director of nfpResearch. Cian oversees all of nfpResearch's bespoke research, helping charities frame, understand and resolve their research questions around brand, audiences, fundraising, communications, stakeholders and more.

Cian is an expert in quantitative research design and analysis and takes the lead on a range of client projects, from proposition and message testing, to audience research and attitudinal segmentation. He is also responsible for ensuring the quality of our research across the board.

Cian is a frequent speaker on a number of charity topics and has spoken at the International Fundraising Congress, The Wheel's Annual Conference, The Irish National Volunteer Management Conference, the Institute of Fundraising Scottish Conference and Trust Fundraising Conference, as well as multiple CharityComms events. He has also authored reports on a range of topics including charity brands and media spend, global fundraising and charity finance.

As well as working at nfpResearch, Cian has previously worked at the British Red Cross in the Fundraising Strategy department, and at the Charities Advisory Trust.