Difference Maker Summit 2026
Join us for the 2026 Difference Maker Summit! This free, one-day conference is designed to equip, connect, and inspire those making an impact across Louisiana.
This year’s theme: Doing More With Less
Because let’s be honest—nonprofits have always been asked to do exactly that.
We’re taking it one step further by focusing on how to build sustainable impact through smarter strategy, stronger systems, and intentional leadership that doesn’t rely on burnout to succeed.
Through practical sessions, real-world insights, and meaningful peer connections, you’ll walk away with tools you can actually implement so you can operate more strategically and strengthen your impact without sacrificing your mission.
EVENT DETAILS
Friday, June 26, 2026
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Renaissance Hotel
7000 Bluebonnet Blvd
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Whether you’re leading an organization, supporting one, or just getting started in the nonprofit space, this event is designed with you in mind.
Be the first to receive registration details, speaker announcements, and event updates.
Get a look at the energy, connection, and impact from last year’s summit.
Past Webinars & Resources
| 10 Tips for Setting Up Your Social Media Accounts for Success Gabrielle Tutko, Dudley DeBosier | WATCH |
| Empowering Nonprofits: Top Free Resources for Success Rebecca Gardner, Hands Producing Hope | WATCH |
| Grants: How & Where to Find Them Cathy Denison-Robert , Business & Workforce Recovery Solutions | WATCH |
| Finding the Right Partners & Donors for Nonprofit Organizations Gabrielle Tutko , Dudley DeBosier | WATCH |
| Networking Strategies for Nonprofit Success Corey J. Frank, Spoken Red | WATCH |
| Community Engagement & Collaboration for Nonprofits Heather Blanchard , United Way of Acadiana | WATCH |
About the Difference Maker Summit
At Dudley DeBosier, we believe that strong nonprofits build stronger communities — and that those who serve deserve support, encouragement, and practical resources. That’s why we created what is now known as the Difference Maker Summit: a free annual training conference designed specifically for nonprofit leaders, employees, board members, and volunteers.
The Difference Maker Summit began in 2018 with just 10 nonprofit organizations in the room, but its roots stretch back even further. Since 2015, our team had been informally coaching local nonprofits — helping with everything from fundraising strategies to board development. We realized there was a real need for a larger, more accessible platform where nonprofits could come together, learn from experts, collaborate with peers, and leave feeling empowered to expand their impact.
Originally launched as the Leadership Academy, the event was rebranded as the Difference Maker Summit in 2024 to better reflect the heart of its mission: celebrating and equipping those who make a difference in our communities every day.
What started as a small gathering has grown into a statewide event, bringing together hundreds of nonprofit organizations each year. Today, the Difference Maker Summit stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration — helping Difference Makers at every level strengthen their missions, extend their reach, and make Louisiana an even better place for all.
What can you expect from Difference Maker Summit? Hear it from your fellow Difference Makers!
“I have been in ministry and directing NPOs for nearly 44 years. This is one of the best trainings I have been exposed to.”
The Kingdom Group, Inc. | Elmo Winters
“I took a USA Grant Writing Class last year, and this was more in-depth than that was. Thank you!”
Louisiana Warriors Unleased (LWU) | Jesse Walls
“I’m truly thankful for these events. I always leave with great knowledge and connections I otherwise would not have.”
UpLIFTD | Katie LeBlanc
“The information y’all provide, and the energy in the room, was so wonderful! I walked away with so many great ideas! We are all in this together, and it’s so wonderful to have a for-profit business that fully supports and understands the need for the nonprofit sector.”
McMains Children’s Developmental Center | Linda Spalatin
“The conference was excellent! We will make every effort to attend [in the future].”
Meaningful Minds of Louisiana, Inc | Jennifer Randal-Thorpe
Questions? Email DifferenceMakers@dudleydebosier.com.
