Say “Yes” to bbcon

I attended bbcon for the first time in 2018 and have returned at every chance. Why? Because it’s worth it. The conference consistently delivers value – insights you won’t find anywhere else, connections with Blackbaud users from around the world, and opportunities to advance your career as a nonprofit professional.

Here are my top 5 reasons for coming back year after year: 

1. Networking: There’s something about bbcon that makes it easy to connect with other nonprofit professionals. Whether or not we use the same products or work in the same sectors we all have something in common – we’re part of the greater Blackbaud community.  From my first conference on, people I’ve met at bbcon have had an immediate impact – offering new perspectives, a safe space to explore ideas, and many opportunities to grow and expand within my field.
2. Direct Access to Blackbaud Developers: Where else can you speak directly with the people building the products you use every day? These conversations are invaluable, allowing you to ask questions, seek clarification, and get insights into future product and feature directions. Pro Tip: If you’re interested in participating in Discovery Calls or Early Adaptor Programs (EAPs), bbcon is the perfect opportunity to speak with Blackbaud reps and express your interest.
3. Engage with Presenters & Product Experts: bbcon is where the best and brightest product users go to share their hard-earned wisdom and advice. Attending in person offers a unique opportunity to interact directly with session presenters and product experts. If a session sparks a new idea, you can walk up and speak with the presenter. Similarly, if another attendee’s question inspires you, invite them to continue the conversation over lunch or coffee. Don’t hesitate to start a discussion with attendees who use different products or work in different nonprofit verticals – these discussions often lead to the most meaningful takeaways. At my first bbcon, the conversations with other attendees were so engaging that I often skipped meals in favor of keeping the discussions going.
4. Product Updates & Roadmaps: The mainstage presentations are a great way to hear directly from Blackbaud leaders about where they are headed as a company, and the exciting new features they plan to roll out. Attending bbcon in person means getting early access to announcements and helping your organization stay ahead. 
5. Meeting Blackbaud Partners: This is an area that shouldn’t go overlooked. Partner conversations offer insights into new trends and breakthroughs that can help your organization stay connected with donors, manage data more efficiently, and raise more money to better support your mission. Even if you’re not looking to invest in another application, it’s worth exploring what is possible – you never know what might spark your interest.

Each moment at bbcon offers a new spark, a new ‘ah-ha!’ moment, a new realization. The conference is about meeting people who are doing exceptional work to change the world for the better and being inspired by it all. The wisdom gained, contacts made, and actionable insights uncovered at each bbcon I’ve attended have had a lasting impact on my career.

I hope to see you in Seattle and at many more bbcons to come!