Announcing Collaborative 2025

Excitement for Collaborative is building. We’re inviting all forward-thinking nonprofit professionals to attend on May 14-15, 2025, for an immersive experience filled with networking, community-building, inspiration, and insights into the latest fundraising trends.
Our two-day experience will take over Chicago as top fundraisers and the industry’s brightest minds gather to advance their causes and social impact.
Register for Collaborative 2025Experience Collaborative 2025 in Chicago
What is Collaborative?
Collaborative isn’t your typical conference. It’s an open door to community and a lifelong network of the social sector’s sharpest and most innovative minds.
Just like you, our attendees and experts work to solve the world’s most challenging problems amid an ever-changing giving landscape. We’ve heard from past attendees about how valuable it is to pause working in silos to come together and bring their best ideas to life.
Collaborative provides that essential space—a hub for organizations and individuals to connect, share insights, and address the most pressing challenges impacting the future of philanthropy. It’s where nonprofit leaders deliberate critical questions, exchange innovative ideas, and push the boundaries of what’s possible for social impact.
In 2025, every speaker, venue, host, and experience will equip you with actionable strategies tailored to today’s unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or returning to take your efforts to the next level, this year promises our most impactful and forward-thinking experience yet.
The value of our time together
As a nonprofit professional, you know that finding opportunities to connect meaningfully with others in your field can feel rare. The pressure to create impact is immense, and it’s easy to feel isolated when what you need is connection and collaboration.
This event specifically brings together passionate professionals and industry experts to spark ideas, share strategies, and build a supportive community.
It’s more than a gathering—it’s a chance to learn from your peers, discover tools to help you raise more, and walk away with fresh inspiration to amplify your mission and drive even greater impact. You’re not in this alone, and Collaborative is here to prove it.
The voices that shape the experience
You’ll hear from visionaries shaping our sector’s future and top fundraisers implementing cutting-edge strategies daily. We can’t wait to introduce you to a lineup of speakers offering insights you can directly apply to your work.
Some notable past speakers include:
- Abby Maxman, President and CEO of Oxfam America
- Anna Rathmann, Executive Director at the Jane Goodall Institute
- Avril Benoît, Chief Executive Officer of Doctors Without Borders
- Benjamin Lloyd Crump, Esquire, Founder and Principal Owner of Ben Crump Law
- Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya, Co-Founders of I AM ALS
- Brittany Packnett Cunningham, Host and Executive Producer of “UNDISTRACTED”
- Dion Dawson, Founder and Executive Director of Dion’s Chicago Dream
- Heather Bennett, Chief of Staff at Direct Relief
- Joan Garry, Principal of Joan Garry Consulting and Founder of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab
- Mick Ebeling, Founder and CEO of Not Impossible Labs
- Reshma Saujani, Activist, Founder of Girls Who Code, and Founder and CEO of Moms First
- Xavier Ramey, CEO of Justice Informed
Taking over Chicago
We’re thrilled to announce that Collaborative is returning to Chicago for its second year, bringing our signature experience back to the vibrant West Loop neighborhood. This dynamic setting is the perfect backdrop for stepping away from the day-to-day and immersing yourself in a world of creativity, connection, and community.
Our main event venues—Morgan MFG and City Hall/Recess—set the stage for inspiring sessions and meaningful conversations. Beyond the event, Chicago’s West Loop offers endless opportunities to explore, from the buzzing local scene at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Time Out Market Chicago to its renowned restaurants and gathering spots.
It’s your chance to network, recharge, and embrace the city’s energy before and after the event.
Morgan MFG | 401 N. Morgan St. Suite 100, Chicago, IL 60642

Morgan Manufacturing invites you into a beautifully renovated historic space designed with versatility in mind. With soaring ceilings, exposed concrete, glass, and steel elements, its industrial charm sets the perfect tone for Collaborative. We’re confident you’ll love the unique atmosphere as much as we do.
City Hall/Recess | 838 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, IL 60642

City Hall and Recess bring industrial charm to life, reflecting the forward-thinking innovation of the nonprofit organizations represented at Collaborative. Bursting with vibrant energy and modern charm, these venues set the stage for exciting connections and unforgettable moments.
Travel and accommodations
For your convenience, we’ve secured exclusive room blocks at two standout hotels: Voco, our main attendee block, and The Emily, the closest option to our event venues. Be sure to use our custom booking links to access discounted rates at these locations.
For additional options, we also recommend the Hyatt House Chicago/West Loop – Fulton Market and The Hoxton. Both offer great amenities and easy access to the event.
For more details, check out our full hotel recommendation guide, which includes the distance to venues, addresses, transportation suggestions, and advice on which hotel best suits your preferences.
Whether you stay close to the action or seek a specific vibe, we’ve got you covered.
Stay in the loop
We’re dedicated to making Collaborative the ultimate experience for you, with the best insights, speakers, and opportunities packed into two unforgettable days. Our team works year-round to ensure the conference continues to evolve, so don’t miss out on updates.
Keep checking back for the latest on our 2025 speaker lineup, networking opportunities, and exciting additions as we gear up to take over Chicago on May 14-15.
Copy editor: Ayanna Julien

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