GEO 2026 National Conference
June 1 – 3, 2026
Hosted by: Grantmakers for Effective Organizations
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Conference Description
The Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) 2025 Learning Conference aims to provide grantmakers with cutting-edge strategies and tools to embed intentional learning and equity into their philanthropic work.
Date
Monday, June 1 – Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Location
The Westin Boston Seaport District
425 Summer St, Boston, MA 02210
Who should attend?
Grantmaking Staff & Trustees
All team members (including board trustees) from private, corporate, community, and family foundations.
Philanthropy Infrastructure Organizations
Staff at regional associations of grantmakers, affinity groups, and other intermediary bodies supporting the grantmaking sector.
Academics & Researchers
Professionals from universities and research institutes focusing on philanthropy and grantmaking practice.
Consultants to Grantmakers
Limited slots are available (max two per organization) for consultants who directly support grantmaking institutions.
Why attend?
Advance Equity-Centered Grantmaking
The conference focuses on how funders can adopt more equitable, community-led approaches—from shifting power to grantees to transforming internal systems that perpetuate bias.
Learn What Actually Works
You’ll hear case studies, research, and peer experiences that reveal what makes grantmaking truly effective—rooted in learning, trust, and accountability—not just outcomes.
Engage in Deep Peer Learning
GEO curates a space where funders talk candidly about challenges and progress. You’ll participate in interactive workshops and small-group sessions that emphasize honest reflection and shared learning.
Improve Your Practices, Internally and Externally
Topics go beyond strategy to include how internal culture, staffing, and systems impact the effectiveness of your grantmaking. You’ll leave with insights you can apply across your organization.
Be Part of a Movement for Smarter, More Just Philanthropy
This isn’t just a “best practices” conference—it’s a convening of people actively rethinking power, relationships, and responsibility in philanthropy.
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Attendees can expect
Equity-Centered Learning
Sessions emphasized practices that center equity and community engagement in grantmaking.
Interactive Workshops
Participants engaged in workshops designed to foster intentional learning practices within their organizations.
Networking Opportunities
The event facilitated connections among grantmakers to share insights and collaborate on advancing effective philanthropy.
Registration Costs
Priority Registration (Feb 10-24, 2026):
GEO members, session presenters, and supporters: $ 1,600
Philanthropy MA: $1,750
Early Registration (Feb 25–Mar 24, 2026):
GEO members: $1,600
Philanthropy MA: $1,750
Nonmembers: $2,100
Regular Registration (Mar 25–May 8, 2026):
GEO members: $1,900
Philanthopy MA: $2,050
Nonmembers: $2,400
Late Registration (May 9-Conference, 2026)
All participants: $2,700
Grantmakers for Effective Organizations 2025 Learning
Monday, June 1 – Wednesday, June 3, 2026
The Westin Boston Seaport District
425 Summer St, Boston, MA 02210
View Conference
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