Yesterday ConnectVA, in collaboration with GiveRichmond/GiveSouthsideVA, Work It, Richmond and i.e.*, hosted Innovation in the Business of Philanthropy, sponsored by PlanG. The evening’s powerful program showcased local innovation connecting more donors with more organizations in creative ways, explored trends in the business of philanthropy and celebrated the launch of innovative giving and microlending platforms right here in RVA. We learned how to get involved in and benefit from trends and platforms that blur the lines between giving and getting, and between nonprofit and business.

Virginia?s own senior U.S. Senator Mark Warner kicked off the program with a video greeting, followed by a special teleconference presentation from Kiva‘s Justin Renfro, who mentioned other crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. Have you ever used these online tools?

Paul Nolde with Virginia Community Capital delivered the keynote. The program concluded with a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Work It, Richmond director, Jacob Geiger before the reception. 

Paul Nolde?s keynote, ?From Great Recession to Great Resurgence: How B Corporations, Millennials and Nonprofits are Redefining Philanthropy? focused on the rise of social enterprises, emerging trends in Millennial engagement, the need for innovative partnerships and new programs that are changing what ?philanthropy? means for nonprofits, donors, investors and consumers. The audience left with action steps to capitalize on this brave new world in the business of philanthropy! In fact, several audience members live tweeted from the event (#connectva). Here?s what a couple of them had to say:

“Being innovative is the best way for nonprofits to attract millennials.” @TheSparkMill

Paul Nolde: ?How will you help donors in a shifting socially conscious landscape?? @HilaryCCook

After Paul’s presentation, the panel featured representatives from local giving, fundraising and microlending platforms that are changing the way we give back and get back:

Bonfire Funds: give your supporters shirts they actually want to wear

GiveRichmond/GiveSouthsideVA: a powerful online tool designed to encourage charitable giving

PlanG: an easy way to give back, see your impact and inspire others

RVA Card: new deals uploaded daily and a % of all proceeds benefit local causes and community projects

Kiva: empower people around the world (and in Richmond) with a $25 loan

If you attended the event or after you check out each platform, let us know how you prefer to engage in philanthropy. Which platforms appeal to you and why? Do you already or do you plan on using any of them personally or for your nonprofit or startup? How do you plan on taking advantage of new technology and trends in philanthropy?

Comment below to join the discussion!