Milan Ball

Director of Development and Philanthropic Partnerships

Indianapolis, IN

Milan Ball is the Director of Development and Partnerships at Giving Compass. A former tech founder, armed with a MA from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, her career centers on helping others discover and build brands aligned with their values. She has unlocked over $5M in philanthropic support for equity-led grassroots initiatives. In addition to being a storyteller and strategic partner, she excels in bridging ecosystems, fostering community, and promoting technologies that benefit society. Recognized as a United Way Emerging Leader, and WIN (Women in Innovation) Mover and Maker, Milan leads a prolific career as a social sector trailblazer.

Speaking Topics

  • Fundraising
  • Philanthropy 
  • Strategic partnerships
  • Equity in tech 
  • Technology for good 
  • Social impact at scale
  • Social entrepreneurship
  • Relationship building (incl. mentorship)

Key Questions to Ask

  • Your career spans Fashion, Technology, and Philanthropy…how did you land here?
  • How has generosity in your personal life shaped your career?
  • You have been hired as the first full-time fundraiser for several organizations – what insights would you offer to leaders considering hiring for that first position?

Speaking Experience

  • Social Venture Partners International Global Summit: Giving in Style (May 2025)
  • AFP ICON: In Conversation with AFP’s New President & CEO (April 2025)
  • Building Relationships with Corporate Sponsors Panel Discussion (March 2025)
  • DAF Giving Summit Webinar Series: Strategies for Engaging Women & Next Gen Donors (2024)
  • DAF Giving Summit Panel on Family Offices and Next Generation Giving (2024)
  • Bubble Immerse Social Impact Cohort Keynote (2024)

Audience & Ideal Event Types

  • Nonprofit professionals, relationship managers, fundraisers, social entrepreneurs
  • Keynotes, panels, moderating, workshops, webinars

Other Activities

  • Board of Directors, Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
  • Co-Chair, AFP Global African American Affinity Group
  • AFP-Indiana Chapter IDEA Committee 
  • Bubble Immerse Community Ambassador