At akoyaGO, we believe that the intersection of learning and innovation is where true transformation happens. EMPOWERED 2024, our annual user conference, exemplified this belief by offering a platform for foundation professionals to immerse themselves in expert insights, interactive experiences, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Over three inspiring days, we came together as a community to explore the power of technology in philanthropy and how the akoyaGO solution can help you overcome challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made EMPOWERED 2024 a resounding success. Your active engagement, insightful contributions, and unwavering enthusiasm were the driving forces behind the event’s unforgettable atmosphere. It’s because of you, our client partners, that the akoyaGO community continues to thrive, and together, we are shaping the future of philanthropy.
"EMPOWERED was very well organized, and everyone there, from akoyaGO staff to users, were so welcoming and open to share. It’s a strong community and we are very happy to be a part of it."
Event Highlights
EMPOWERED 2024 was filled with dynamic sessions, insightful discussions, and meaningful connections. Here are some of the key moments that made the conference so special.
Networking at O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co.
The conference kicked off with a networking event at O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co., owned by the I.A. O’Shaughnessy Family Foundation, one of our valued clients. This setting provided the perfect opportunity for attendees to meet, connect, and lay the groundwork for the days ahead. The Welcome Reception on the first day further set the stage for the collaborative and community-driven spirit of EMPOWERED 2024.
18 Breakout Sessions
From relationship management to grant, financial, and donor management, our breakout sessions covered the full spectrum of akoyaGO products. These sessions provided practical tools and strategies to help foundations operate more efficiently and effectively, empowering our attendees to drive greater impact.
Keynote by President Mark Montoya
Mark Montoya, our newly appointed President, delivered an inspiring keynote that set the tone for the conference. His address highlighted the pivotal role of technology in shaping philanthropy and shared innovative insights on how we can further our collective impact. His call to action left attendees inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to elevate their foundation’s operations.
The Power of WE
Tatiana Hernandez, CEO of Community Foundation Boulder County and a client of akoyaGO, delivered a powerful keynote on fostering partnerships and collaboration. Her insights into creating a thriving community of practice resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the importance of working together to achieve greater impact.
A Night at the Museum
The second evening of the conference, set against the backdrop of beautiful summertime in the Twin Cities, was marked by a memorable social event at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Renting out a floor of the museum after hours provided a fun and unique setting for attendees to relax, unwind, and continue building connections in a more informal atmosphere.
Philanthropy’s Digital Evolution Client Panel
The conference concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Eric Aquino, akoyaGO philanthropic consultant, and Meredith Johnson, akoyaGO account executive. The panel featured distinguished akoyaGO users who are leading the way in philanthropy’s digital evolution:
- Laura Gano, Peter Kiewit Foundation
- Laura Montoye, Greenville Area Community Foundation
- Erin Trinsler, The Clowes Fund
- Rita Goldberg, Philanthropic Advisory Practice at Hemenway & Barnes LLP
These experts shared first-hand examples and valuable advice on how to harness technology for greater impact, providing attendees with insights to drive their own foundations forward.
A Global Gathering of Philanthropic Voices
EMPOWERED 2024 brought together over 200 voices from across the philanthropic industry, representing foundations from the U.S., Canada, and even overseas. The important conversations that took place throughout the conference centered on core processes and how technology can be leveraged to boost impact. We urged our attendees to continue these conversations beyond the conference, spreading the momentum and inspiring those who weren’t in the room.
We are filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for the incredible community that has come together through akoyaGO. This conference was not just an event—it was a celebration of the power of collaboration, innovation, and the collective drive to do good, better. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Together, we are leading philanthropy toward a future of greater impact, and we can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish next.
The momentum from EMPOWERED 2024 doesn’t end here. We encourage all our attendees to keep the conversation going—share your insights, connect with your peers, and let’s continue working together to transform the foundation landscape. If you’re looking for a technology partner that’s as committed to your mission as you are, we invite you to explore what akoyaGO can do for you.
"The EMPOWERED conference was extraordinary and such a wonderful opportunity for us to meet the staff and other users. There is much for us to learn still and EMPOWERED has given us such inspiration about how we will be able to use akoyaGO at the Foundation. We are so very excited to be live and start really using the system with our applicants and grantees."
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