Grantmakers energised by Melbourne learning and networking event

The free sold-out half-day “Grantmaking Muster” hosted by the Institute of Grants Management (IGM) and SmartyGrants was a combined learning and networking event.

SmartyGrants’ director of managed services, Stephen Foxworthy, said the October event was aimed at emerging and experienced grantmakers.

SmartyGrants staff were now working on a similar event to be held in February in Brisbane, with registrations now open, he said.

Foxworthy’s own presentation addressed the use of independent assessors to reduce the risks of conflicts of interest, while experts tackled grantmaking analytics and data, mapping the grantmaking process, and the use of artificial intelligence in grantmaking applications and assessments.

After the event, attendees said they valued the hands-on guidance on tasks such as the use of process mapping to identify bottlenecks and improve workflows in processes such as automated payments and streamlined invoicing. Others were inspired by the sessions to trial decision-making driven by data.

Foxworthy said the highlights were observing peer learning in action as those in the room explained how they were solving grantmaking problems, and the chance for “grant nerds” to network.

Grantmakers attending the Brisbane event should expect “a deep dive into outcomes-focused, equitable and lower-risk grantmaking”, Foxworthy said.

“Attendees consistently tell us they’re a fantastic way to increase their knowledge.

“You’ll walk away with ideas you can actually put to work,” he said.

More information

Register for the Brisbane Grantmaking Muster (February 19, 2026)