Join the conversation

We’re seeking dynamic voices to shape the narrative at the DAF Giving Summit in Washington, D.C, September 17-19, 2025. Act now – submissions will be evaluated on an ongoing basis.

Submit speaking proposal

Sessions & Formats

Keynote

High-impact sessions designed for the entire DAF Giving Summit audience. These four keynote presentations will focus on the most pressing issues facing all DAF stakeholders, offering insights and inspiration relevant to the entire philanthropic ecosystem.

Breakouts

In-depth sessions aligned with specific content tracks. While tailored to particular audiences, these discussions will address critical topics that resonate across the DAF community, providing actionable insights and practical takeaways.

Big ideas talk

Fast-paced, TED-style presentations featuring bold, transformative ideas poised to shape the future of philanthropy. Each one-hour session will include three Big Ideas Talks centered around a unifying theme, delivering powerful insights in a concise format.

Impact lunch lab

Expanding on last year’s Sector Circles, these interactive, moderated discussions provide a space for attendees to exchange ideas, learn from peers, and build meaningful connections around a specific topic. Designed for engagement and collaboration, these sessions foster valuable networking and shared learning.

Topics of Interest

Based on our recent content survey, the following topics are top of mind for the audience. While the conference will not be limited to only these topics, we will include them where possible across the session formats.

Next-gen and demographic shifts in philanthropy

Engaging women, heirs, and younger generations in giving; trends in values-based philanthropic planning.
Navigating the political and regulatory landscape

The implications of current public policy, tax strategies, evolving views on ESG and DEI, and the role of philanthropy in today’s political climate.
Unlocking DAF capital for greater impact

Exploring non-cash gifts, investment options for charitable dollars, and leveraging DAFs for for-profit social impact ventures.
Effective engagement between nonprofits, advisors, and donors

Practical strategies for charities to build stronger relationships with wealth advisors and DAF donors.
Innovative philanthropic models

Collaborative giving, high-impact philanthropy, collective funding approaches, and the growing trend of LLC giving.
The future of DAF operations: technology, AI, and automation

Exploring how AI, fintech innovations, and back-office automation can enhance efficiency, streamline grant-making, improve donor and grantee experiences, and reduce administrative burdens in the DAF ecosystem.
Storytelling, data, and transparency in DAF giving

Improving donor engagement through impact reporting, AI innovations, and better communication of DAF-funded outcomes.

Who Should Apply?

Thought leadership

Experts in philanthropy, wealth management, policy, and fintech

DAF stakeholders

Key players shaping the philanthropic ecosystem

Donors and advisors

Driving impact through guidance and giving

Submission Guidelines

Sessions will be primarily evaluated on what actionable learnings the audience can take away from the session, along with quality of the speaker(s), alignment with topics that are top of mind for all DAF stakeholders, and uniqueness.