What can an idea ignite? A spark that stays with you for days. A fresh perspective that changes how you see an issue. A conversation that challenges the status quo and opens new possibilities. When ideas take hold, they can move us forward.

Ideas Ignite, one of the three experiences of Shaping the Future: Philanthropy & Public Policy, will feature bold spark talks that challenge our thinking, examine long-standing critiques, and inspire new conversations about how to modernize the policies that shape philanthropy. Attendees will engage virtually with peers across the sector to begin the work of discussing complex topics together that they will continue to explore during The Summit.

Shaping the Future is a series specifically for philanthropy leaders who are energized by thoughtful debate and problem solving together. This is not your typical sit-and-listen; your voice and expertise about the sector are essential to the conversation.

Together, we will chart a path forward—building on the generosity and achievements that have defined philanthropy for centuries.

Foundation leaders, philanthropy infrastructure organizations, and individuals looking to engage in shaping philanthropy’s future are invited to register for the series.

No single organization or individual can shape philanthropy’s future alone. We are stronger when we share our stories, highlight our collective impact, and work together to achieve our goals. As part of Forward Together, philanthropy leaders will have the opportunity to connect with peers and meet with members of Congress and other policymakers to advance a shared vision. We'll explore ways to work together to build stronger communities and move our sector forward, together.

Forward Together is an optional experience in the event series Shaping the Future: Philanthropy & Public Policy. You can add this part of the series for an additional $175 when you register.

Shaping the Future is a series specifically for philanthropy leaders who are energized by thoughtful debate and problem solving together. This is not your typical sit-and-listen; your voice and expertise about the sector are essential to the conversation.

Together, we will chart a path forward—building on the generosity and achievements that have defined philanthropy for centuries.

Foundation leaders, philanthropy infrastructure organizations, and individuals looking to engage in shaping philanthropy’s future are invited to register for the series.

The Summit, one of the three experiences of Shaping the Future: Philanthropy & Public Policy, is a highly participatory, one-day gathering where attendees will explore fresh ideas together, debate recommendations, and chart a path toward a more modern philanthropic sector. Together, we will shape a shared vision for philanthropy’s future—one participants can bring back to their colleagues and peers to keep the conversation moving forward.

The Summit is taking place at the same time as pre-conference sessions for Leading Locally 2027 at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown by IHG. Separate registration is required to attend the full Leading Locally 2027 conference, or you have the option to add the Opening Plenary and Welcome Reception to your Shaping the Future registration.

Shaping the Future is a series specifically for philanthropy leaders who are energized by thoughtful debate and problem solving together. This is not your typical sit-and-listen; your voice and expertise about the sector are essential to the conversation.

Together, we will chart a path forward—building on the generosity and achievements that have defined philanthropy for centuries.

Foundation leaders, philanthropy infrastructure organizations, and individuals looking to engage in shaping philanthropy’s future are invited to register for the series.

As 2026 draws to a close, private foundations are balancing year-end grantmaking, compliance requirements, and planning for the year ahead. Join us for an open office hours session where the Council’s Legal Resources team will answer any questions you may have about key legal and tax considerations for private foundations including concerns regarding:

• Minimum distribution requirements and qualifying distributions
• Self-dealing considerations and transactions involving disqualified people
• Grants to organizations that are not public charities, including expenditure responsibility requirements

Whether you're wrapping up your foundation’s activities or preparing for a strong start to 2027, this is a great opportunity to get clarity.

Bring your questions! This session is designed to be interactive and responsive to your needs.

As 2026 winds down, we know that community foundations face one of their busiest periods of the year. Whether you have questions about gift acceptance and donor stewardship, grantmaking, or fund administration, we hope you’ll join us for an open office hours session where the Council’s Legal Resources team will be available to answer your questions about common topics that arise as we wrap up the year.

Bring any questions you have about:

• Qualified charitable distributions
• Gift timing and acknowledgment
• Recent legal developments relevant to community foundations in 2027

And explore our end-of-year frequently asked questions page for more guidance. Whether you're wrapping up your community foundation’s activities or preparing for a strong start to 2027, this is a great opportunity to get clarity.

Bring your questions! This session is designed to be interactive and responsive to your needs.