I’m at a tech governance forum today. Here’s why you should care 👀

Today I’m in Brisbane, sitting in a room full of suits at the AICD Tech Governance Forum. I’m here as a scholarship recipient (yep—feeling fancy), but what I’m really here for is the juicy, practical stuff no one’s talking about enough in the nonprofit space.

I'm proudly representing Girl Guides Australia, where I sit on the board, along with the other amazing organisations I support through boards and committees.

But here’s the real reason I’m here: to hear from experts talking about the moral imperative for responsible AI, how boards should respond to a tech crisis, the lessons coming out of Silicon Valley, and what all this means for small organisations (yes, that includes nonprofits).

Sounds a bit “big business”, right?

But let me tell you—this couldn’t be more relevant to the nonprofit space.

Because while small and midsize nonprofits are juggling “do more with less” every damn day, tech is reshaping the playing field. And if we're not actively paying attention, we’ll be left behind (or worse, blindsided).

Technology isn’t just about chatbots. It's streamlining admin, boosting reach, flagging risks, and—when used responsibly—actually protecting our organisations.

AI and digital tools aren’t just buzzwords. They’re becoming essential infrastructure. And if you're not thinking about where tech fits into your org's future strategy, it’s time to start. 

... and don't even get me started on cyber security risks. 

Nonprofits like yours can’t afford to be the last to the table when:

• AI can help automate admin and free up staff time,

• new platforms can help you reach more people for less,

• and smart tech governance might literally protect you from a ransomware crisis.

My hot tip? Start small, but start now.

I look forward to sharing my big takeaways from today with you all in the coming days. 

Talk soon,
Alecia

P.S. If no one on your board has asked “what’s our AI policy?”—you might be overdue for a conversation. Just sayin’.

P.P.S. Want my help working out how to use AI and custom GPTs to save time in your nonprofit? There is just one seat left for the Smart NonProfit AI Lab pilot.