Navigating Advocacy in Uncertain Times: A Systems Approach for Nonprofit Leaders

This interactive session helps nonprofit leaders navigate the real-world challenges of advocacy in complex and uncertain policy environments. Drawing on a systems-based framework, we move beyond traditional "build your organization's capacity" approaches to examine how policy context, coalition dynamics, and funding structures shape what advocacy is actually possible.

Participants will engage in scenario-based exercises grounded in real cases (e.g., politically sensitive issues, funding risk, and coalition decision-making). Working through these scenarios, attendees will practice making strategic choices: when to speak out, how to engage in coalitions, and how to assess risk while staying aligned with mission. The session is designed to be highly practical. Participants will leave with tools to assess their organization's position within broader advocacy systems, identify gaps in coalition infrastructure, and make more informed, confident advocacy decisions under pressure.