28 February 2019

Are you part of the Next Generation in philanthropy? Apply now for the EFC’s Next Gen Programme!

Taking place throughout the EFC’s annual conference, a key event that brings 650 philanthropy professionals together, the Next Gen programme gives a new generation of professionals in philanthropy a unique chance to interact with leading philanthropy practitioners from Europe and around the world, and form lasting networks with their peers.

Participants learn about the state of institutional philanthropy, both in Europe and internationally; key issues and trends of the sector; and about the European Foundation Centre itself. The programme is designed according to the needs of each participant, and gives access to the entire conference.

Download the full Next Gen Programme 2019 agenda

What can you get out of the Next Gen Programme?

The Next Gen Programme gives you a chance to:

  • Exchange with peers about what it means to be a professional in philanthropy and which development opportunities may be available
  • Meet and build relationships with peers and more experienced professionals in the wider EFC network
  • Get constructive feedback from senior participants through one-on-one mentoring
  • Gain insight into developments in institutional philanthropy in Europe
  • Find out more about the EFC and how it can support foundation staff with their daily work
  • Be an active participant at the EFC annual conference
  • Have your say by blogging on the EFC website and posting on EFC social media throughout the conference
  • Join an alumni group that works together on the design of EFC AGA sessions and small pilot projects

Tips from previous Next Gen participants on getting the most out of the programme

According to the previous participants of The Next Gen Programme, the best moments include:

  • Networking events such as the Welcome cocktail and dinners where Next Gens have a chance to connect with participants from their focus areas with facilitation from the EFC team.
  • The introductory session which provides the Next Gens with information about who is who in the sector and trends in the particular areas of interest to the participants.
  • The Lunch Exchange with Alumni has been another highly rated activity that enables the Next Gens to engage in conversations about the challenges of entering into a new sector and to develop personal strategies to address them.
  • The Words of Wisdom is another clear favourite, bringing together the Next Gens with leaders in the sector who give advice based on their wide experience in philanthropy.

What’s new in 2019?

With 8 editions of the Next Gen programme under our belts, we know that participants:

  • Appreciate mentoring and feedback
  • Care about learning and growing
  • Have innovative ideas about creating more diverse, dynamic and inclusive workplaces
  • Are comfortable offering their opinion freely
  • Value making significant contributions

With this in mind, we’ve added the following to the programme:

Growth map: Based on your answers to a few questions on what you hope to get out of the conference, EFC staff will create a map of networking activities and conference sessions tailored to your expectations.

Dedicated online community: A social networking platform will be set up to connect Next Gen participants to one another before, during and after the programme.

Mentorship: Next Gen participants will be matched up with experienced philanthropy professionals whom they can touch base with throughout the conference – over coffee, at a networking event, at a session – to discuss what they’ve learned and to get advice from those who have been in the sector for more than ten years.

Raising the voice of the Next Generation: The Next Gens will be invited to write blog posts for the EFC website and to post comments on EFC social media throughout the conference using #nextgen. Post-conference the EFC will publish longer reflections from Next Gen participants on their experiences and insights, and what advice they have for the future of philanthropy.

How to apply

Who is Next Gen for?

Next Gen is for 10-12 newcomers to the sector – those either at the start of their professional career or those who are making a career change from other sectors. To be eligible, participants should meet the following criteria:

  • Work for an EFC member
  • Have not attended a previous EFC AGA and Conference
  • Have the support of their supervisor to participate in the programme
  • Are comfortable in the conference working language (English)
  • Willing to contribute to the Next Gen Programme by voicing their ideas and suggestions on various public and peer specific platforms

In selecting participants, the EFC will seek to ensure diversity. Participation may be limited to one representative per organisation.

Costs

Your foundation is expected to cover your registration, travel and accommodation costs. Should you require financial support, please check the scholarship tab on the conference webpage.

Download the application form

To apply, please download the application form and send it back to us, along with your CV, to Sevda Kilicalp.

The deadline for applications is the 29th April.

Contact

For more information please contact Sevda Kilicalp.

The Next Generation programme is part of the EFC’s ongoing commitment to improving peer-learning and connection among its members. Learn more about the EFC Strategic Framework 2016-2022.