Park conservancies—nonprofit organizations that raise funds and manage or support public parks—are playing an increasingly vital role in ensuring year-round programming, ongoing maintenance, and long-term financial stability. But sustaining funding over time is no simple task; each phase of a conservancy’s life presents unique challenges around financial strategy, governance, accountability, and public trust.
This peer conversation explores the lifecycle of park conservancies through the lens of financial sustainability. Discussion leaders will share real-world case studies to illustrate how their organizations have navigated the complex terrain of public-private partnership to build durable funding pipelines and resilient institutions. Topics will include:
- Growth and scaling: How maturing conservancies diversify revenue (e.g. earned income, philanthropy, sponsorships), build reserves, and embed equity into financial decision-making
- Legacy stewardship: How established conservancies plan for leadership succession, adapt to economic downturns, and remain transparent and accountable to the communities they serve
- Others from attendees
With funding for public parks increasingly unpredictable—and expectations for inclusive, high-quality, and climate-ready public spaces only growing—this session offers a rare inside look at how different cities are sustaining conservancy models through turbulence. Discussion leaders will share hard-won lessons on balancing independence and public accountability, expanding mission without diluting it, and preparing for the next crisis while delivering today’s services.
Note: This Peer Conversation is a closed session for conservancy and individual park nonprofit leaders and staff only and is not available to general conference participants. If you represent a conservancy or individual park nonprofit, please add your name to the waitlist. Conference organizers will regularly review the waitlist and notify those who are moved into the session or are ineligible to attend so they can register for an alternative.