Charity trustees from across Northern Ireland are being invited to join Arts & Business NI’s (A&B NI) annual Governance Conference this autumn, for a day dedicated to strengthening charity leadership.

Now in its 14th year, the A&BNI Governance Conference, supported by HM Chartered Accountants, has become a must-attend event for trustees, board members, CEOs and charity leaders who want to strengthen governance, build more resilient organisations and connect with others shaping the future of the sector.

This year’s conference focuses on some of the most important responsibilities facing every charity board: understanding fundraising and finance. With increasing financial pressures across the voluntary and cultural sectors, trustees are being asked to make complex decisions in an increasingly challenging environment. Through keynote speakers and insightful panel discussions with charity trustees and sector leaders, the conference aims to equip boards with the confidence, knowledge and practical tools they need.

Headline speakers include Alison Cowzer, Managing Director of The Company of Food, host of The Currency podcast, investor on RTÉ’s Dragons’ Den and Chair of Rough Magic Theatre Company, alongside Flora Raffai, an EMCC-accredited coach, trainer and consultant who specialises in helping small organisations make a big difference.

Holly Foskett, Arts Programme Manager at Arts & Business NI, said:

“At Arts & Business NI, we’re proud to support a community of trustees who give their time, skills and experience to help arts organisations thrive. Our Governance Conference is a chance for people to come together, share ideas, learn from one another and feel more confident in their roles. We’re delighted to have HM Chartered Accountants sponsoring this year’s event. As a valued member of the Arts & Business NI creative network, their support helps us continue investing in the people who make such a difference across the sector.”

Angela Craigan, Partner at HM Chartered Accountants, commented:

“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Arts & Business NI for a third consecutive year as headline sponsor of the A&BNI Governance Conference. Strong governance is fundamental to every successful charity, and finance plays a central role in helping organisations deliver on their purpose. Through our work with clients across the commercial and third sectors, we see every day the difference that informed decision-making, effective financial oversight and strong leadership can make. We are proud to support an event that celebrates the commitment of trustees and charity leaders while providing practical knowledge and inspiration to help organisations thrive.”

This year’s Arts & Business NI Governance Conference will take place on 5 November 2026. Trustees and board members from charities of all sizes, along with CEOs, directors and senior leaders, are encouraged to come along, whether they’re new to governance or have years of experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, share ideas and gain practical insights to help strengthen organisations and the communities they serve. Earlybird rate tickets are available until 31 August, find out more at and book your place here.