The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits is hosting their sixth annual conference for nonprofits in Greater Minnesota, this year in St. Cloud on May 5. This day-long event is designed to bring together staff, board members and volunteers from across Minnesota to learn, network and strategize. The Summit is especially designed for small to mid-size organizations, especially those working in regional centers, small towns and rural communities.

This year’s Summit will tackle some of the most pressing themes for nonprofits in Greater Minnesota:  rural philanthropy, fundraising in small communities, and a spectrum of nonprofit leadership including governance, personal leadership, organizational culture, advocacy and more. Throughout each discussion, they will look at the ways that these issues play out in our Greater Minnesota communities and they’ll highlight opportunities for building a vibrant landscape for all.

Morning Keynote Session: Reversing the Current of Underinvestment in Rural Communities

During the opening session, you’ll have a chance to hear from Minnesota-native Aaron Dorfman, executive director of the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy. Aaron will help you grasp how foundations and nonprofits can advocate for greater funding and succeed in small towns and rural communities.

Luncheon Keynote Session: Fundraising and Thriving in a Rural Economy

Over lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to hear from a panel of speakers who will reflect on the theme of fundraising and thriving in a rural economy. They’ll address the questions, “Is there a rural funding drought?,” “How do we build leadership in Greater Minnesota?” and “What are nonprofits doing to thrive in small towns?”

Go to www.minnesotanonprofits.org to learn about additional session offerings and to register.  Early bird rate available through April 28.  Special rates for MCN members and groups of 4+ from the same organization.