At Exponent Philanthropy, we believe lean foundations can drive significant change through thoughtful strategies and meaningful community engagement. Malcolm MacLeod, board chair of the Johnson Scholarship Foundation, recently shared how his foundation has embraced these practices to achieve transformative outcomes. He discusses this in depth on a recent episode of The Catalytic Podcast: Supercharging Impact:... Read More
Filing Form 990-PF can feel like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re managing the filing process yourself or working with a professional, staying organized throughout the year will save time and reduce stress. This guide will walk you through how to categorize expenses, keep essential... Read More
Public policy shapes the very issues funders care about—education, healthcare, economic development, and beyond. Yet many funders hesitate to engage, unsure of their role or the impact they can have. The truth? Policymakers see philanthropy as a valuable partner. Funders bring deep community knowledge, flexible resources, and innovative solutions that can inform better policies. Even... Read More
As we step into the new year, we reflect on the vibrant Exponent Philanthropy community. Lean funders in 2024 advanced meaningful change, demonstrating the value of strategic and streamlined giving. Your insights and support made last year extraordinary. Here’s to continuing our ambitious strategic plan, working together, and creating lasting impact in 2025. Cheers to... Read More
Identifying effective nonprofits begins with clarity about your goals and values. As a donor, focusing on the impact you want to achieve can help you find organizations that align with your mission. By honing in on your priorities, you can support nonprofits that share your vision and help them advance the work you care about... Read More
Proper recordkeeping is essential for efficient foundation operations, legal compliance, and smooth audits. An organized system ensures easy access to critical documents, reduces clutter, and protects your foundation’s history. Although maintaining records might seem like a time-consuming task, investing thought and effort into a clear and practical system will save time and prevent headaches in... Read More