8:00–9:00 Welcome & Opening Session

Kick off the day with an energizing welcome from event host Ryan Davidson and special guests.

We’ll set the tone for the Summit, share the vision behind the gathering, and outline what attendees can expect.

This opening hour is designed to unite everyone around a shared purpose: building stronger communities together and moving ideas into action.

9:15-11:30 Workshop Session 1 & 2

Get ready for a deep dive into the pillars of organizational success. Participants will engage in an interactive experience led by industry experts in four key tracks. Two will be chosen in the morning and two will be chosen in the afternoon:

• Grant Writing: Mastering the art of the proposal.

• Marketing: Building a brand that resonates.

• Business Development: Strategic growth and partnership mapping.

• Volunteer Mobilization: Activating your most valuable human resources.

The Goal: Don't just listen. Execute. Come prepared to take notes, ask tough questions, and build a customized Action Plan designed for immediate implementation the moment you leave.

11:30–12:00 Resource Fair

Explore a curated marketplace of mission-driven businesses, service providers, and community partners.

The Resource Fair offers dedicated time to discover valuable resources, build partnerships, and support organizations aligned with your work.

12:00–1:30 Lunch & Keynote

Enjoy lunch while hearing from our featured keynote speaker, Marquis Forge, Owner of Eleven86 Water and Founder of MRaine River Association. In this inspiring address, Marquis will share powerful insights on grassroots initiatives that truly work, drawing from real-world leadership and hands-on community impact. Attendees can expect practical encouragement, proven strategies, and actionable lessons designed to strengthen today’s nonprofit and community leaders.

1:45–4:00 Workshop Session 3 & 4

4:00-4:30 Closing Remarks

We’ll reflect on the day’s biggest takeaways, celebrate connections made, and challenge attendees to put what they’ve learned into action.

4:30-6:00 Community Mixer

End the day with intentional networking in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Community Mixer creates space for deeper conversations, collaboration opportunities, and relationship-building with fellow nonprofit leaders, educators, and changemakers across Alabama.

Giveaways will take place during the Mixer. Attendees must be present to win.