The Power of Place: Cultural Philanthropy in 2026

Discover how place-based cultural philanthropy is driving meaningful change across the UK. The Power of Place is our second national philanthropy conference, bringing together cultural leaders, philanthropists, and change-makers to explore the power of place-based philanthropy in the arts.

11:00
Meet the Figurative Team (optional) - an opportunity for a pre-conference consultation
with the Figurative investment, impact or philanthropy teams

12:30 Lunch (fully booked)

13:15
Welcome - Francesca Sanderson, CEO, Figurative
Welcome to Manchester
Introduction to Figurative Philanthropy for Arts and Culture - Sir Vernon Ellis, Trustee,
Figurative

13:45 Keynote Speech – Paul Callaghan CBE, Sunderland Culture
Learnings from Sunderland: Philanthropy’s vital role in cultural regeneration

14:15 Round Tables
Delegates will have the opportunity to select from a range of topics including Clore Leadership’s Tees Valley programme, and FPAC’s current work across different locations.

15:40 Networking break with tea & coffee

16:00 Expert panel chaired by Moira Sinclair, Chair, Factory International
Lessons from the Front Line
Panel to include: Alex Day (Big Give), Nicky Twemlow (Made in Stoke), Dave Moutrey OBE (Manchester City Council)

16:50 Concluding remarks – Moira Sinclair

17:00 Networking/drinks

18:00 Close

Tickets for this event are FREE, but we encourage donations to help cover the cost of the event on a pay what-you-decide basis.

FPAC is funded by Arts Council England

Halle St Peters is an accessible venue. See the Facilities section of https://halle.co.uk/venues/halle-st-peters for more information. If you have any questions regarding accessibility, ticketing or the conference in general, please contact info@artsphilanthropy.org.uk

[Event photo (c) Nicola Gotts Photography]