Participants at the convening are looking for opportunities to meet and share their concerns with their peers. It is very important that an atmosphere of trust is created. To help us create and maintain that atmosphere, the Jewish Funders Network does not permit fundraising at any of its events. However, we encourage funders to share their passions, create partnerships and develop joint ventures. We are aware that the line between “pitching” and “sharing” is not always so sharp. These are some guidelines that can help us navigate this issue:

• Soliciting financial support for a specific organization or initiative (unless invited to do so, should be avoided.
• Distributing materials unsolicited (brochures, unsolicited emails, etc.) is not acceptable.
• If you are a speaker or presenter, please consider the subtle but important difference between a presentation and a pitch. Generally, we encourage everyone to focus on the issues being discussed rather than the work of specific organizations.
• Many funders see JFN events, such as the convening as a “safe space” in which they can discuss issues without being solicited or pitched. Others do search for ideas and projects to fund. It’s important that you ascertain the level of comfort of the person you’re speaking to.
• There’s a difference between partnering with somebody and soliciting them for funds. The former is encouraged, the latter is better left for venues specifically designed for that.
• Extend the benefit of the doubt: sometimes the difference between soliciting and sharing one’s passion is in the eye of the beholder. We encourage a collegial atmosphere in which we assume everybody’s good intentions. It’s okay to point out to a fellow participant that you don’t want to be “pitched.”
• If you experience aggressive pitching or soliciting, please don’t hesitate to tell a member of the JFN staff.

We will be taking pictures throughout the convening, to be used as a record of the convening and potentially for future JFN marketing.