Session: Panel Discussion: Fundraising in turbulent times

Speakers: Gaby Murphy, Ken Burnett, Mary Gamble & Áine Myler

In an era marked by economic uncertainty and shifting donor priorities, Fundraising in Turbulent Times explores how non-profits and mission-driven organisations can adapt, innovate, and thrive. This panel brings together experienced fundraisers and thought leaders to discuss strategies for building resilience, maintaining donor trust, and unlocking new opportunities despite challenging conditions.

Drawing on lessons from past crises—such as the 2008 financial crash and the COVID-19 pandemic—we'll examine what worked, what didn’t, and how those insights can shape more effective fundraising approaches today.

Attendees will gain practical tools and real-world examples to help navigate volatility while staying true to their mission and maximizing impact.

Ken Burnett (Session Two)

Ken Burnett is an inspirational speaker and author of several books on donor development and communication, including all three editions of his best-seller, Relationship Fundraising, first published in 1992 and described by leading fundraising academic professor Adrian Sargeant as, “The most influential, beautifully written and warm text in fundraising.” Ken believes fundraising really can enrich the lives of donors, fundraisers and the people, issues and causes that together they transform, all around the world. But to do that, fundraisers first have to change fundraising itself.