Austin, Texas is set to become a focal point for philanthropic collaboration next month, hosting – the PowerUP! Texas 2026 conference at the Hilton Austin. The event, organized by Impact Austin and co-hosted by other Texas giving circles, aims to foster networking and the exchange of best practices within the growing field of collective philanthropy.
PowerUP! Texas 2026 builds upon a legacy originating in 2008 with a gathering of thought leaders from eight giving circles convened by Colleen Willoughby of the Washington Women’s Foundation. Impact Austin was among the initial participants, recognizing the need for a dedicated conference to support collective giving groups. The conference, formerly known as the Women’s Collective Giving Grantmakers Network (WCGN), has evolved to address the expanding landscape of philanthropic efforts.
The event is particularly significant for women’s collective giving groups, offering a platform for inspired learning and community impact. Four current Impact Austin members – Kali’ Rourke, Nicole Genovese, Alyssa Reyna, and Judi McCarthy – are actively involved in the conference’s Steering Committee, demonstrating the organization’s sustained commitment to the Philanos network.
The conference coincides with a busy period for television programming, with the Winter Olympics running from to in Milan and Cortina, Italy, broadcast on NBC and Peacock, with additional coverage on USA Network and CNBC. also marks the broadcast of the Super Bowl LX on NBC, and the premiere of a reboot of the comedy series “The ‘Burbs” on Peacock.
Beyond the high-profile sporting events and entertainment offerings, the PowerUP! Texas 2026 conference highlights a growing trend in philanthropic giving. Collective giving, where individuals pool their resources to make larger, more impactful grants, has gained momentum in recent years. This approach allows donors to address complex social issues more effectively and fosters a sense of community among givers.
Early registration for PowerUP! Texas 2026, with reduced pricing, opens on . Interested attendees are encouraged to monitor Impact Austin’s website for updates and registration details. The conference is expected to draw participants from across Texas and beyond, representing a diverse range of giving circles and philanthropic organizations.
The timing of the conference also places it within a broader context of television premieres. will see the release of “The Lincoln Lawyer” on Netflix and “Field Generals: History of the Black Quarterback” on Peacock. Other notable premieres scheduled for February include “We Call It Imagineering” on Disney+ and a new season of “The Muppet Show” on ABC. The sheer volume of programming available in underscores the continued strength of the television industry, even amidst the rise of streaming services.
The PowerUP! Texas 2026 conference represents more than just a gathering of philanthropists; it signifies a commitment to collaborative problem-solving and community investment. As collective giving continues to evolve, events like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of philanthropy and maximizing its impact on society. The event’s focus on best practices and networking will likely lead to increased efficiency and effectiveness in the allocation of charitable funds.
The conference’s location in Austin, Texas, is also noteworthy. Austin has emerged as a hub for innovation and social impact, attracting a diverse population and fostering a vibrant philanthropic community. The city’s growing economy and progressive values make it an ideal location for a conference focused on collective giving and community impact. The Hilton Austin, as the host venue, is well-equipped to accommodate the expected influx of attendees and provide a conducive environment for networking and collaboration.
The inclusion of a new docuseries, “Sleeping with a Killer,” premiering on Lifetime on , the same day as the conference begins, highlights the diverse range of content available to viewers. This juxtaposition of philanthropic endeavors and true crime programming reflects the broad spectrum of interests and concerns within contemporary society. The concurrent events demonstrate the multifaceted nature of the media landscape and the competing demands for public attention.
the premiere of “The ‘Burbs” on Peacock on signals a continued interest in revisiting and reimagining classic properties for a modern audience. This trend reflects a broader strategy within the entertainment industry to leverage established brands and appeal to nostalgia while simultaneously attracting new viewers. The reboot of “The ‘Burbs” is likely to generate significant buzz and contribute to the overall excitement surrounding television programming in .
