Digital and Technology Conference

Opening plenary - Beyond the hype: What technology can really deliver for charity finance 

This session will explore where technology can deliver measurable financial benefits, how to assess return on investment, and what finance leaders should consider when evaluating technology providers and building a business case for change. The discussion will also consider the financial risks of digital adoption, the cost of standing still and where charities should be prioritising investment over the next three to five years.

Session 1 - Beyond automation: Using technology to transform charity finance 

How can technology help charities manage growing demand for financial support while strengthening financial controls and maximising the impact of every pound spent?

In this practical case study, the Naval Children's Charity will explore how the charity implemented technology alongside its existing finance systems to reduce administrative workloads, improve governance, and provide real-time insight into how funding is accessed and used. The session will examine the benefits of reducing manual processing, strengthening audit trails, and improving financial reporting, while enabling beneficiaries to access support more quickly and flexibly.

Sponsored workshop 1 - cybersecurity

This practical workshop will explore the key cybersecurity challenges facing charities, the importance of protecting sensitive financial and organisational data, and the steps organisations can take to strengthen their defences. Attendees will gain insights into identifying vulnerabilities, managing cyber risks and building a more resilient approach to cybersecurity.

Session 2 - Making data work for you 

Drawing on practical examples, this session will explore how charities can make better use of the data they already hold. From getting data ready and overcoming common data quality challenges to identifying high-value use cases and turning information into actionable insights, the discussion will focus on making data work harder for finance teams.

Session 3 - Getting digital transformation right

This practical session will take attendees through the digital transformation journey, from identifying organisational needs and building the business case to selecting the right technology, managing implementation and embedding new ways of working. It will explore common pitfalls, lessons learned and practical tips for overcoming challenges along the way, helping charities make informed decisions and get the most from their investment.

Whether you are taking your first steps or refining an established digital strategy, you will leave with actionable ideas to move your organisation forward.

Sponsored workshop 2 - how is the sector using AI?

This workshop will explore real-world applications of AI across charities, highlighting emerging use cases, practical opportunities and lessons learned. Attendees will gain insights into how organisations are adopting AI, where it can add value and what charities should consider when exploring its potential.

Session 4 - People first: Closing the digital skills gap 

Investing in the right technology is only half the battle. For digital transformation to succeed, charities need the right skills, the right people and an organisational culture that embraces change.

This session will explore the human side of digital transformation, from addressing skills gaps and recruiting digital talent to ensuring staff have the training and confidence to make the most of new technologies. It will also consider how finance professionals can build support across their organisations, including engaging trustees and senior leaders, overcoming resistance to change and making the case for investment in digital skills.

Closing plenary - The impact of AI on the future of finance 

What does AI mean in practice for charity finance teams, and how can the sector prepare for the changes ahead?

This closing plenary will explore how AI could shape the future of finance in charities, from the evolution of finance roles and skills to the opportunities, risks and challenges of adoption. The panel will consider what these developments mean for finance professionals, how charities can prepare their teams for an AI-enabled future, and what the sector needs to do now to ensure technology supports effective financial management and better decision-making.