Over the years, the Academy of Life Planning has thrived as a global community dedicated to holistic financial well-being. As we continue to grow, I am constantly inspired by the passion and commitment of our network members—whether they’re seasoned professionals or individuals on their own financial planning journeys. Recently, a few of our professional planners within the Academy have proposed an idea that resonates deeply with me: organising a physical conference where members can gather, connect, share knowledge, and grow together.
This idea excites me because it aligns perfectly with our mission to foster a supportive, collaborative, and enriching environment. However, organising such an event is not without its challenges. From past experiences, I know that while the benefits of a physical conference are immense, the costs can be significant, and attendance isn’t always guaranteed. If we are to move forward with this idea, it must be done with careful consideration and proper planning.
The Case for a Physical Conference
Physical conferences provide unique opportunities for meaningful face-to-face interactions, networking, and in-depth learning. They allow us to build stronger connections within our community, offering a space where members can:
- Learn from Each Other: Engage in workshops and discussions that deepen our understanding of holistic financial planning.
- Grow Together: Share experiences, challenges, and successes, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
- Build Relationships: Strengthen professional and personal bonds that extend beyond the virtual realm.
However, organising a successful conference requires financial support, not just from attendees but also from external partners. To ensure the event is accessible to all members, we need to explore alternative sources of funding.
Introducing the Academy Sponsorship Programme
To make this vision a reality and to keep attendance costs manageable, I have launched the Academy Sponsorship Programme. This initiative is designed to bring in financial support from partners who share our commitment to holistic well-being and ethical financial planning. Our sponsorship packages offer various levels of engagement, providing sponsors with valuable exposure to our diverse and growing audience.
The response from past partners has been overwhelmingly positive, and I am confident that with their support, we can host an event that reflects the values and aspirations of our community.
Exploring a Virtual Conference as a Starting Point
While the idea of a physical conference is appealing, I also recognise the value of starting with a virtual event. A virtual conference allows us to:
- Test the Waters: Gauge interest and participation within our network without the logistical challenges of a physical event.
- Engage a Global Audience: Connect with members from around the world who may not be able to attend a physical event.
- Reduce Costs: Lower the financial barriers for both the Academy and its members, making the event accessible to more people.
A virtual conference can serve as a stepping stone toward a future physical gathering, providing us with insights and experiences that will be invaluable when we eventually bring everyone together in person.
A Call to Action: Your Support and Participation
As we embark on this journey, I am reaching out to our network for support and participation. Whether through attending the conference, contributing to the planning process, or connecting us with potential sponsors, your involvement is crucial.
I am committed to ensuring that our network is treated with the respect, care, and consideration it deserves. We are not just a revenue stream; we are a community dedicated to ethical, transparent, and client-centered practices. By working together, we can create an event that truly reflects the values of the Academy of Life Planning.
If you are interested in learning more about our sponsorship opportunities or if you have ideas or suggestions for the conference, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can make this event a success and continue to grow as a community that leads by example in the world of holistic financial planning.
If you’re a supplier interested in exploring sponsorship opportunities with the Academy of Life Planning, we warmly invite you to sign up for our Partner Mailing List. By joining, you’ll be the first to receive exclusive insights into how we can collaborate to enhance your brand’s visibility while making a positive impact within our community. Our partnership opportunities are designed to be flexible and aligned with your goals, offering you a unique chance to connect with a network that values transparency, ethics, and holistic growth. Sign up today and take the first step towards a rewarding partnership with us.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our shared mission. Let’s take this next step together.
Warm regards,
Steve Conley
Founder, Academy of Life Planning
Academy of Life Planning 