Getting started with Power BI can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re working with Blackbaud data and aren’t sure what “connecting” even means. This session is designed for beginners who want a clear, simple starting point and a better understanding of what options are available.

We’ll break down the different ways people commonly get Blackbaud data into Power BI, using straightforward examples and plain language. You’ll learn why some tools and connectors exist, what problems they’re meant to solve, and how viewing data for reporting is different from working with data inside everyday Blackbaud workflows.

Along the way, we’ll share a few easy “first dashboard” ideas based on real fundraising and finance questions, so you can imagine what’s possible without needing to be a data expert. You’ll also leave knowing where to find helpful documentation, examples, and learning resources so you can confidently take your next step with Power BI.