Conference In Person Open to all

2026 PFC National Conference

23 - 25 September 2026 / Registration will open soon

Invitation:

PFC’s 2026 National Conference – Reciprocity – will be our biggest one yet, bringing members, friends, partners, and leaders in the sector together to tackle the urgent challenges of our times.

The theme of “Reciprocity” at this year’s conference means a focus on building strong relationships and working on sector solutions.

We have designed a conference experience that combines learning, dialogue, and collaboration to enable the philanthropic sector to further its role in advancing a just, equitable and sustainable future.

This is following on the success of PFC’s 2024 National Conference in Ottawa, Together | Ensemble, that gathered 400+ leaders from the sector – and marked our 25th anniversary as a philanthropic network.

TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER CLICK HERE

What you can expect:

Based on feedback from previous conferences, Reciprocity 2026 will be :

Co-Created: A conference experience grounded in shared responsibility, mutual exchange, and collective action, with the sector shaping conference design, content, and facilitation.

Participatory: Engagement and meaningful impact through multiple learning environments, bringing together peers, community leaders, and sector practitioners to address shared challenges and co‑create solutions.

Integrative: A content mix of foundational knowledge, best practices, reflection, and critical inquiry, organized through cross‑cutting streams that surface intersectional issues and opportunities for joint action across the philanthropic ecosystem.

Inclusive: Inclusive, respectful, and equitable representation in speakers, facilitators, and session design, ensuring voices reflect the breadth, diversity, and lived realities of communities across the country.

Authentic: An authentic space to learn from and support Indigenous‑led and community‑led leadership, centering reconciliation, reciprocity, and culturally grounded approaches to systems change.

Relational: Ample opportunity for relationship‑building, peer exchange, and informal connection, recognizing that trust and sustained relationships are essential for collaboration, learning, and long‑term impact.

 

Where/When/Who/How ?

  • Winnipeg

    Our conference will take place in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis.

    Manitoba is on Treaty Territories and the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Denesuliné, and Nehethowuk Nations, and the Homeland of the Red River Métis.

    We look forward to welcoming conference goers at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg as our main conference venue. We also have very exciting evening programs that will take attendees into the community, at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the Forks.

  • September 23–25, 2026

    Wednesday, September 23 – Friday, September 25, 2026.

    Pre-conference activities are also planned for Tuesday, September 22.

  • All those involved in the philanthropic sector

    Our conference is open to foundations and philanthropic leaders, as well as:

    • Charitable organizations
    • Community-based groups
    • Policy and research institutions
    • Government
    • Academia

     

  • Staying informed

    Scroll down for further information.

    • Schedule at a glance
    • Pricing
    • Venue
    • Policies

    More items will be added as new elements are confirmed.

    Please visit this page to get all the up-to-date details on our program, registration, and frequently asked questions.

TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER CLICK HERE
Pricing Table

PFC Member & Foundation Ticket Types

Registration Info 

The event is open to the philanthropic sector, with a focus on grantmaking foundations. 

These are our registration categories: 

  • Foundations (PFC members, non-members, Indigenous) 
  • Nonprofits and Charities 
  • Government 
  • Academia 
  • Students / Underemployed 

Please note, there are two main ticket types, with different program access: 

  • Foundation Tickets*: cover full-day conference access for September 23-25, as well as pre-conference activities on September 22. Registration opens May 6, 2026. 
  • Non-Grantmaker Tickets: cover conference access starting from the evening plenary on September 23, as well as full-day conference access for September 24-25. Registration opens June 3, 2026.  

*Foundation ticket types include foundations and other organizations whose primary activity is charitable grantmaking to multiple unrelated organizations 

TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER CLICK HERE
Pricing Table

Non-Grantmaker Ticket Types

Venue

The RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg

375 York Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 3J3

The RBC Convention Centre is the premier convention facility in Manitoba. Located in the centre of Winnipeg’s bustling downtown, the three-story, 264,000 sq ft multi-purpose facility has access to more than 2,300 downtown hotel rooms and is within walking distance to many of the city’s best restaurants, entertainment, and local attractions. The second-floor concourse connects to the climate-controlled skywalk leading to the Delta Winnipeg Hotel.

Our Policies

Philanthropic Foundations Canada and our membership wish to ensure a culture of openness, clarity and kindness. Our refund and non-solicitation policy are here for your reference.

  • Non-Solicitation Policy

    PFC Purpose Statement
    The members of Philanthropic Foundations Canada are individually and collectively committed to the public good. We believe that public trust in our performance and behaviour is reinforced through the integrity and honesty we demonstrate in all our relationships, dealings, and transactions.

    PFC non-solicitation policy
    One of the primary strengths and benefits of PFC membership is the ability to network and, in some cases, collaborate to improve the sector. This takes place both formally and informally. Members are encouraged to reach out to other members who may have similar identified interests. Members may also review the PFC website, or contact the PFC Team for knowledge of potential collaborators. By working together, greater impact often results.

    PFC Conference non-solicitation policy
    We are committed to fostering an environment in which all conference attendees can engage in meaningful discussions, networking, and collaboration. We ask all conference attendees not to engage in uninvited solicitation for funding, investment, or any form of financial transaction during the conference. Thank you for your cooperation.

  • Refund Policy

    Refund Policy

    PFC Conference Cancellation Policy

    Refund fees are scheduled as follows:

    • Cancellation before September 6 – full refund minus a $100 processing fee
    • Cancellation on or after September 7, or for no-shows – non-refundable
    • Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing by email to this address.

    Substitutions

    Substitutions / Ticket transfers may be made at any time; however, only one substitution is permitted per registration, in accordance with PFC’s eligibility policy. The individual submitting the substitution request is responsible for ensuring that all financial obligations (any balance due) associated with that registration and substitution are met and that contact information for the new registrant is updated with PFC’s registration team. Requests for substitutions must be submitted in writing by email.

  • Payment Policy

    We accept VISA, American Express (AMEX), MasterCard, EFTs, E-transfers and cheques as methods of payment.

    Electronic Funds Transfer

    Please email us for EFT information.
    Note: please specify sender and purpose of contribution

    E-Transfer/INTERAC

    Please email us.
    Note: you will need to send password in a separate email.

    To pay by cheque

    Please make cheques payable to: Philanthropic Foundations Canada
    Mail your cheque with a copy of your invoice to:

    Philanthropic Foundations Canada
    c/o Maison Philanthropique Notman, 51, rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2X 1X2

  • Consent and Release Policy Regarding Photos, Videos, and Recordings

    By attending PFC’s 2026 National Conference and offsite conference experiences, you may be photographed and/or recorded for promotional purposes, including social media, PFC’s website, promotional material, and post-conference materials. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please speak to the photographer/videographer to opt-out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are frequently asked questions about the 2026 National Conference.

Conference Location
Conference Registration
Conference Accommodation

  • I’m coming from out of town, where do you recommend attendees stay?

    For attendees traveling from out of town for our 2026 National Conference in Winnipeg, we are pleased to inform you that PFC has partnered with renowned hotels in Winnipeg to ensure a convenient and comfortable stay.

    To explore these accommodation options, please follow this link.

    You will find detailed information on each hotel, including amenities, rates, and how to book.

Travel and Transportation

  • I’m travelling from out of town to attend PFC’s 2026 National Conference – how do I get to Winnipeg?

    By air: the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is 7km away from The RBC Convention Centre, Delta Hotel, and the downtown core.

    By VIA Rail train: Winnipeg Union Station is 1.5km away from the RBC Convention Centre, Delta Hotel, and the downtown core.

  • Are there any travel discounts available?

    Discounted rates for air and train travel to Winnipeg are available with the following providers.

    Via Rail

    • In the “Add a discount code” field, select “Conference Fares” and enter the code 16117.
    • VIA is offering travelers 10% off the best available fare in Economy, Economy Plus, Business, Business Plus, Sleeper class. Subject to the conditions and restrictions of the fare plan to which the additional discount is being applied. Discount does not apply in any Escape fares and Prestige Class.

    Applicable Rules

    • The fare discount is available for travel between September 16, 2026, to October 6, 2026.
    • The fare discount is available for travel from all stations throughout the VIA system to Winnipeg and return.
    • The fare discount applies to a maximum of two passengers per booking.

    Air Canada

    To book travel with Air Canada, please enter your promotion code in the Promotion Code box: VZMBQEH1.

    • Customers will benefit from an instant online registration and enjoy a ten per cent discount on eligible fares.
    • The booking is to be made to the following city: Winnipeg, YWG (CA)
    • The travel period begins Wednesday, September 16, 2026, and ends Friday, October 2, 2026.
    • Travel is valid for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
    • For North America, 5% applies on standard fares, 10% on flex fares & higher. For International Travel, 10% on standard fares & higher.

    WestJet

    • 5% off Econo* and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada and 2% off Econo*, 5% off EconoFlex and 10% off Premium base fares for travel between Canada and US. No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings.
    • To take advantage of this offer, you will need the discount code listed. Please visit westjet.com to make a booking online.

    Applicable Rules

    • The booking is to be made to the following city: Winnipeg, MB.
    • The travel period begins: 9/16/2026.
    • The travel period ends: 10/2/2026.
    • Coupon Code: Guest web/Travel Agent web 1J7Y8QU.
    • Promo Code: Travel Agent GDS only YBC28.

    Porter

    • Porter Airlines is proud to offer an up to 10% discount on available base fares (with the exception of the lowest class fare during a public seat sale) for travel to and from PFC Conference 2026. The discounted fares are available for booking from March 16 to September 27, 2026 and available for travel to and from the PFC Conference 2026.
    • Travel is valid from September 21-27, 2027.
    • Please book online at Porter.com
    • or through your travel agent using promo code “PFC26”. Porter offers complimentary in-flight snacks and beverages (including beer and wine), GatePorter service for carry-on and access to the Porter Lounge in Toronto where free Wi-Fi and comfortable, leather seating is available.
    • The promo code is intended for use by conference attendees and organizers and is not meant for distribution outside of authorized channels. Porter’s fare rules and conditions apply. For any questions regarding Porter’s services or any pre-travel concerns, contact us at 1-888-619-8622.

  • I will be travelling by car. Is there parking nearby?

    For information on parking at the RBC Centre please click here.

Conference Language

  • In which language is the event being held?

    We will be offering the conference program in both English and French. Live Simultaneous Interpretation in English and French will be offered for all plenary sessions taking place at the RBC Centre. If you require a headset for live Simultaneous Interpretation, please indicate this on your registration form.

    A translation and captioning app is available on your personal device for 4 of the 5 concurrent sessions. If you plan on using this app, please bring your own headphones so you can listen to the audio on your personal device.

Conference Accessibility
Conference Experience

  • When can I see the full schedule of the Conference?

    Click here to see our Conference Schedule at-a-glance, to give you a sense of how to plan for your participation.

    Click here to see our detailed Conference program and list of speakers. Updates will be released over the coming months, and the final pieces of the program will be shared in full at the beginning of September.

    Registered conference attendees will be given access to our main conference site and event management platform (hosted on CVENT) where you will be able to access information on speakers, presentations, and other conference details as they become available.

  • Will individual presentations given as part of PFC’s 2026 National Conference be made available to attendees?

    Conference attendees will be able to access conference session content being made available by presenters — including speaker presentations — through our conference site and event management platform (hosted on CVENT). There may be some conversations or sessions that have materials developed for session attendees only.

  • What is included in the conference registration?

    We have designed a conference experience that combines learning, dialogue, and collaboration to enable the philanthropic sector to further its role in advancing a just, equitable and sustainable future.

    There are two main ticket types, with different program access:

    Foundation Tickets cover full-day conference access for September 23-25, as well as pre-conference activities on September 22.

    Non-grantmaker Tickets cover conference access starting from the evening plenary on September 23, as well as full-day conference access for September 24-25.

    As a part of your registration, you will receive access to the conference program aligning with your ticket type, as well as access to the conference site and event management platform. Through the conference platform (hosted on CVENT), you will be able to connect with other attendees, access important information, and view conference content.

    Conference registration includes meals, as well as discounted rates on travel and accommodation.

  • Are meals included in the conference registration?

    Yes – registration includes the following meals:

    “Foundation” Registration Type:

    • Breakfast, buffet lunch, and a light reception (with 1 drink ticket) on Wednesday, September 23
    • Breakfast, buffet lunch, and a light reception (with 1 drink ticket) on Thursday, September 24
    • Breakfast on Friday, September 25

    “Non-grantmaker” Registration Type:

    • Light reception (with 1 drink ticket) on Wednesday, September 23
    • Breakfast, buffet lunch, and a light reception (with 1 drink ticket) on Thursday, September 24
    • Breakfast on Friday, September 25

    Note: conference meals will include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to meet your dietary preferences and restrictions. Please ensure you note your dietary preferences on the registration form.

  • Is registration (an RSVP) required to attend the evening events? 

    Yes. There is no additional cost to attend, but it is helpful for our planning to be able to anticipate the number of participants at each evening event.  

    During the Conference Registration process, please register your attendance for our evening events: 

    • Wednesday, September 23: 6-8:30pm – Welcome Plenary and Reception at the Forks 
    • Thursday, September 24: 6-9pm – Evening Social at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights 

    Thank you! 

  • I see you use the term Dine Around, can you explain what that is?

    Dine Arounds are informal, hosted dinner conversations that create space for connection, peer exchange, and relationship-building among funder participants. Each Dine Around is centered on a particular theme or subject and is hosted by a PFC member or partner who brings knowledge, experience, and passion to the topic. These small‑group dinners offer an opportunity to connect with peers in a relaxed setting and to continue or deepen conversations sparked throughout the day.

    Each takes place at a restaurant or venue. Space is limited.

    Note: participants will be responsible for the cost of their own meal at the selected restaurant.

    Registration for Dine Arounds will open in June. If you plan to participate, please hold the evening of September 22 in your calendar.

Conference Policies

  • What is your refund, cancellation, and substitution policy? 

    Refund and Cancellation policy 

    Refund fees are scheduled as follows: 

    • Cancellation before September 6 – full refund minus a $100 processing fee 
    • Cancellation on or after September 7, or for no-shows – non-refundable 

    Substitutions

    Substitutions / Ticket transfers may be made at any time; however, only one substitution is permitted per registration, in accordance with PFC’s eligibility policy. The individual submitting the substitution request is responsible for ensuring that all financial obligations (any balance due) associated with that registration and substitution are met and that contact information for the new registrant is updated with PFC’s registration team. Requests for substitutions must be submitted in writing via this email address. 

  • Does the PFC membership’s non-solicitation policy apply to and during the conference experience? 

    Yes. Our conference is open to individuals in the philanthropic sector who are not currently members of the PFC network. This policy applies to all conference participants – PFC members and non-PFC members.    

    One of the primary strengths and benefits of PFC membership is the ability to network and, in some cases, collaborate to improve the sector. This takes place both formally and informally. Members are encouraged to reach out to other members who may have similar identified interests. Members may also contact the PFC Office for knowledge of potential collaborators. By working together, greater impact often results.  

    We are committed to fostering an environment in which attendees can engage in meaningful discussions, networking, and collaboration. 

  • Can I approach foundations for funding during the event?

    We respectfully ask conference registrants and attendees not to engage in uninvited solicitation for funding, investment, or any form of financial transaction during the conference.

    PFC’s national conference adheres to a clear non-solicitation policy to facilitate the conference experience. We are committed to fostering an environment in which attendees can engage in meaningful discussions, networking, and collaboration.

  • What payment methods are accepted by PFC and how can I process my payment?

    We accept VISA, American Express (AMEX), MasterCard, EFTs, E-transfers and cheques as methods of payment.

    Electronic Funds Transfer
    Please reach out info@pfc.ca for EFT information.

    Note: please specify sender and purpose of contribution

    E-Transfer/INTERAC
    Please send to this email address: info@pfc.ca
    Note: you will need to send password in a separate email to this email address.

    To pay by cheque
    Please make cheques payable to: Philanthropic Foundations Canada
    Mail your cheque with a copy of your invoice to:

    Philanthropic Foundations Canada
    c/o Maison Philanthropique Notman
    51, rue Sherbrooke Ouest
    Montréal, Québec H2X 1X2

Other

Stay tuned for more details

Be on the lookout for the conference agenda – including Speakers and Session news – which will be released in the coming weeks.

Save Wednesday, September 23 through to Friday, September 25, 2026 in your calendar, spread the word, and start getting into the spirit of Reciprocity. Let’s keep working together to strengthen Canadian philanthropy for a just, equitable, and sustainable world.

CAF Canada

Presenting Sponsor

Canadian Race Relations Foundation

Presenting Sponsor

RBC

Presenting Sponsor

Addenda Capital

Momentum Sponsor

Blackbaud

Momentum Sponsor

Jarislowsky Fraser Limited

Momentum Sponsor

Miller Thomson

Momentum Sponsor

Temelio

Momentum Sponsor

Carters

Supporting Sponsor

Desjardins

Supporting Sponsor

McCarthy Tétrault 

Supporting Sponsor

Rally Assets

Supporting Sponsor

Goodman Foundation

Funder

Ronald S Roadburg Foundation

Funder

The Philanthropist Journal

Media Partner
PFC News

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André Pawan Vashist

Director, Learning & Collaboration

A multi award winning social innovator, André has 20 years of experience in community wellbeing and transformations and is a facilitator of multi-stakeholder collaborations that are working towards social and ecological justice.

At his core, he is a dedicated family member with two children, a lover of the land with joy for being outdoors, a poet who expresses openly about life’s journey, and a passionate collaborator for a better world.   

Co-designing solutions to shared challenges is where André likes to infuse his magic by weaving identities with a healing centered approach - connecting the inner and outer work as we attempt transformations to solve societal challenges. Watch this TEDx Talk to learn more about André.

André is currently located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek (Ah-nish-in-a-bek), Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-no-show-nee), Lūnaapéewak (Len-ahpay- wuk) and Chonnonton (Chun-ongk-ton) Nations, on lands connected with the London Township and Sombra Treaties of 1796 and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum - also known as London, Ontario, and along the river, Deshkan Ziibi.   

The three Indigenous Nations that are neighbours to London, Ontario are the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation; Oneida Nation of the Thames; and the Munsee-Delaware Nation who all continue to live as sovereign Nations with individual and unique languages, cultures and customs.      

(This Land Acknowledgement is a first step towards reconciliation. Awareness means nothing without action. He continues to learn and take steps towards decolonizing practices, including being informed about the traditional lands, Treaties, history, and cultures of the Indigenous people across Turtle Island.)