Where Digital Fundraising Meets People Power

Resource Alliance CEO Willeke van Rijn on why coming together at this pivotal moment to learn, connect, share, and mobilise, is so important.

At the heart of every movement, every breakthrough, and every act of generosity, there are people: people who give, who organise, who challenge, who imagine a different future… and then work tirelessly to build it.

We are in a time where the world feels increasingly complex and divided – and one in which driving meaningful change (and fundraising to resource it) feels like it’s getting harder. But one thing is still very clear: Change is possible, and it happens when people come together. Not just as donors, but as active participants in something bigger than themselves. Not just as supporters, but as cocreators of impact.

Do we see people as donors, but or do we recognise them as much more than that? Those who open their hearts (and their wallets) to our causes are individuals driven by purpose, compassion, and a desire to belong. When people are given the opportunity to do more than just give – to connect, to understand, to be part of our vision – we see people power in action, where we build a constituency and create a broad base of support towards our purpose. We’re seeing this in action: Look at Gen Z movements across the globe that have resulted in policy change, elections, and new governments in places like Kenya, Nepal, and Hungary. Look at the nine-million-strong No Kings protests in the US, or half a million people taking to the streets of London in opposition to far-right politics. People have power and people make change.

This is why Fundraising Online, the free digital fundraising, AI, and mobilisation event, is so important right now. At #FRO2026, we will celebrate people power in all its forms. Last year, the event brought together over 3,500 people from 123 countries – and 94% told us they learned something new. More than that, it’s where you can connect with your colleagues from all over the world, and come away feeling inspired, connected, motivated, and renewed. Together, we will ask questions, challenge assumptions, and share what works (and what doesn’t!).

Fundraising Online: #FRO2026 is the one-day event for fundraisers and campaigners where you will build core digital fundraising skills, explore emerging mobilisation models, and make sense of what’s changing - from digital engagement and AI to new financing approaches and local solutions. It’s happening on 13 May and registration is free. Sign up now >>