Nonprofit Summit Brings Together Statewide Leaders

Earlier this year more than 500 nonprofit leaders, advocates, and philanthropists from across Texas gathered in Austin for the Texas Nonprofit Summit, hosted by OneStar Foundation. The event served as a vital space for nonprofit professionals to engage in collective learning, strengthen their leadership skills, and connect across regions and causes.

Over two days, the summit featured 20 sessions exploring topics like financial sustainability, strategic leadership, advocacy, equity, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the nonprofit sector. Leaders shared tools, insights, and real-world examples to help organizations navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

The theme of this year’s summit was clear: the nonprofit sector plays a central role in helping communities respond to uncertainty while shaping a better future. Whether dealing with economic pressures, changing technology, or persistent inequities, organizations are being called to lead with courage, creativity, and collaboration.

Opening remarks were delivered by OneStar President and CEO Chris Bugbee, who reminded attendees that this work doesn’t happen in isolation. “It’s about leadership, resilience, and solidarity,” he said, pointing to the critical role of nonprofit organizations as front-line problem solvers across Texas.

Keynote speaker Monika Kincheloe, of the George W. Bush Institute, delivered a powerful talk on the importance of centering communities in social impact work. She encouraged organizations to listen deeply, measure what truly matters, and stay anchored to their mission while adapting to change.

For those working to address challenges in health, housing, education, or economic mobility, the summit offered more than professional development—it offered connection. Attendees exchanged ideas, formed new partnerships, and walked away with tools to help them serve more effectively.

It’s no secret that nonprofits across the state are facing serious headwinds. But the 2025 Texas Nonprofit Summit demonstrated something equally important: people are showing up with conviction, generosity, and a shared commitment to building solutions that last.

As the sector evolves, gatherings like this serve as a reminder that leadership doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means showing up, learning together, and working toward progress, one step at a time.

To read more or view summit resources, visit onestarfoundation.org.