Three years ago in Texas, foundations confronted a profound crisis. For decades, funders working on public education have invested tens of millions and countless hours to support the public schools and the millions of students from low-income backgrounds served by those schools. These foundations have long been committed to numerous partnerships with state government. Their... Read More
A point of view is a distinctive attitude about philanthropy—what you as a funder believe you can best accomplish, and how to do it. I have noticed that philanthropists who have a point of view are more intentional, more confident, and more bold and daring. They have thought through not only their mission and focus—but... Read More
Carol Cantwell, founder of Fun With Financials, works with nonprofits and foundations to build financial literacy and align philanthropy with true financial health. We spoke with her about her Financial Health Assessment Tool designed to dig into grantees’ financial health without requiring budgets, and about ways foundations can let go of preconceptions when they approach... Read More
One of the most sought-after goals in philanthropy is finding effective solutions to society’s problems. Foundations are well positioned to accomplish this. Free from the pressure of pleasing customers, voters, and shareholders, foundations can focus their money and knowledge on supporting people and organizations testing new approaches to pressing social and environmental issues. As many... Read More
Leadership can be defined in literally hundreds of ways. This is why Exponent Philanthropy knows we can’t take an “off the shelf” definition of small foundation leadership. Instead, by taking time to explore leadership in small foundations, Exponent Philanthropy will be better able to validate, nurture, and celebrate it. And, by nurturing leadership, our hope is... Read More