Call for Speakers: 2023 Nonprofit Talent Summit in Memphis, TN

Momentum Nonprofit Partners, Mid-South Philanthropy Network, and Christian Brothers University Institute for Leadership Development join together to host the inaugural Nonprofit Talent Summit

Charitable nonprofits from across the country have reported significant difficulties retaining staff and filling vacancies since the pandemic changed the world in 2020. National Council of Nonprofits launched a Survey of Nonprofit Workforce Shortages to determine the scope and impact of these difficulties. This analysis, benefitting from responses from more than 1,000 nonprofits from all 50 states, presents a robust picture of the impact of workforce shortages on the ability of charitable nonprofits to advance their missions. What was initially considered a challenge has now become a workforce crisis in need of rapid remedy and long-term commitment to overcoming pre-existing problems exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Our Nonprofit Talent Summit will serve as both a learning opportunity for nonprofit leaders but also an opportunity to co-create sector-wide responses to some of the most challenging components to our workforce crisis.

Give a Presentation at the 2023 Nonprofit Talent Summit

The inaugural Nonprofit Talent Summit will focus on a study by National Council of Nonprofits: The Scope and Impact of Nonprofit Workforce Shortages. We are looking for interactive 1 hour presentations (facilitated twice) that provide cutting edge solutions grounded in data and national trends in the following areas:

  • Organizational culture: organizational culture is as important as ever. What components of intentionally building (or rebuilding) organizational culture are most important as it relates to attracting and retaining staff?

  • Salary and benefits: Salary competition and benefits are one of the most challenging components of recruiting and retaining staff. What are ways to rethink our compensation and benefits packages to make our organizations more attractive to new recruits while also keeping our good employees loyal to our organizations?

  • Managing organizational change: Managing organizational change is one of the most important aspects of nonprofit leadership, and no nonprofit has been left untouched in the wake of the seismic shifts to our culture in the last few years. What do nonprofit leaders need to know about effectively handling organizational change?

  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion: Developing a culture of safety and inclusion that supports everyone’s wellbeing is no longer optional for nonprofits – it’s required. Will the intertwined crises of the last several years help create a “New Normal” for our communities, one that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive? What does DEI have to do with the workforce shortage, and what can organizations do about it?

  • Nonprofit staff well-being & self-care: For most Americans, the last two years have been stressful at best; for many, they’ve been traumatic. Some stress can be relieved or prevented by rethinking routine ways of operating. What are emerging trends and practical ideas that nonprofits can employ to ensure a mentally and physically healthy workforce?

  • Emerging trends in human resources/employee life-cycles: There is a wealth of new research and best practices related to human resources administration that could potentially help nonprofit employers recruit and retain talent while complying with state and federal laws. What trends are emerging that nonprofit leaders need to know about, specifically, those that can address the workforce shortage?

We are seeking experienced facilitators to lead sessions in these areas. We will provide a $250 honorarium for our breakout speakers. This is your opportunity to position yourself as an expert in front of some of Memphis and the Mid-South's most prominent nonprofit and philanthropic leaders.

Presenters should have:

  • A track record of understanding and experience in their topic area

  • An interactive presentation approach that embraces theories of adult learning and ensures the best learning and engagement opportunity for the audience

  • An energetic presence and engaging facilitation style that will support our goal to make content memorable, easier to retain, and well-rated

  • Diverse ideas and perspectives incorporated in their presentation

  • Materials that clearly align with summit topic

  • Additional resources, activities, worksheets to supplement the attendee experience and for continued learning

Presentation formats

In-Person only: Presenters will present to summit attendees in-person in formats such as a panel, fireside chat, or an interactive workshop. Presenters will present the same presentation twice.

Proposal Timeline Submission Deadline

  • Accepting submissions – May 15th - June 9th

  • Review of submissions - June 9th - June 23rd

  • Notification of selection – June 26th

  • Final summit agenda published – July 1st

Proposals should be submitted online. You will be asked to provide:

  • The session title and summary

  • A detailed description of your proposed session

  • Your bio, contact information, and social media profiles (optional for promotional purposes)

Who Attends

With the diversity of industry practitioners convening under one theme, the Nonprofit Talent Summit presents the opportunity for professionals at varying career stages and across sectors (executives, academics, program leaders, board members, funders, consultants, coaches, etc.) to collaborate, learn, shape and advance the nonprofit sector for the good of the communities we serve.

Where

Christian Brothers University
Buckman Hall
650 E Pkwy S, Memphis, TN 38104

Have additional questions? Email April Carter here.



April Carter, CNP

April is the Director of Programs at Momentum Nonprofit Partners.