Philanthropy Company will bring their extensive experience in engaging donors and prospects for clients in the education sector. As well as their knowledge and 'intel' from working directly with philanthropists, family wealth offices, and grantmaking trusts; to this session to support School leaders to effectively cultivate donors.

This session will encourage critical reflection on strategies for building pivotal relationships and enhancing donor engagement. Attendees will gain actionable techniques to inspire donor loyalty, understanding donor motivations and needs, and drive sustainable support for their institutions.

Key learning areas will include:

• Increased understanding of current global philanthropic trends and how they impact on effective donor cultivation.

• Improved knowledge of how to identify who to ask and what to ask for.

• Better understanding of what inspires donors to give and what motivates them.

• Increased knowledge of how to engage donors and prospects and prepare for making the ask.

Who is it for?


Senior development professionals, including:

- Development managers, senior development associates or equivalent

- Development directors, deputy/associate development directors or equivalent

- IDPE members and non-members

Gemma McPhail, Senior Consultant and Client Manager, Philanthropy Company

Caroline Underwood OBE, CEO, Philanthropy Company

Caroline Underwood has spent her career working at the axis of philanthropy and good causes both within organisations and as founder and leader of Philanthropy Company. She has worked with hundreds of donors, trustees and philanthropists to generate funds for education and has had a particular emphasis on capital campaigns and on creating access and opportunity for all.

Caroline has worked with the University of Oxford, Bath Spa University, Rugby School, Ashfold School, IntoUniversity, Northumbria University and was the founding Development Director of the University of Arts London.

Gemma McPhail is an experienced education fundraiser having spent over 20 years fundraising for charities, most recently for Mansfield College, University of Oxford where she worked on major gifts, legacies and alumni engagement. At Philanthropy Company she focusses on our education clients, leading our work with schools and managing relationships with a number higher education clients as well as some major arts charities.

• Other than those presenting, corporate partners will not be admitted.
• Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
• If the masterclass is popular, IDPE may request schools send one delegate only to ensure all member schools can participate.
• If, after registering, you are unable to attend the masterclass, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can offer the place to someone else.