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 small advocacy efforts—whether through storytelling, relationship-building, or direct outreach—can influence decisions that shape lives.
So how can funders step into this role effectively? Here’s how to build connections, engage in the legislative process, and ensure your voice helps shape a stronger future.
How Funders Can Engage in Public Policy
Funders don’t have to be policy experts to make a difference. Small, intentional actions can have a big impact. Based on insights from our Advocacy Field Guide, here are key strategies to get started:
1. Build Relationships With Policymakers
Strong relationships are the foundation of effective advocacy. Take time to understand what motivates lawmakers and connect with them through shared interests. Leverage existing connections—such as trustees, donors, or community partners—to establish meaningful relationships.
2. Engage Early—Not Just When Issues Arise
Advocacy isn’t just about reacting to legislation—it’s about shaping it before it’s written. Start building relationships before a crisis or key decision is on the table, ensuring you have a seat at the table when it matters most.
3. Align With Issues That Matter
Policymakers focus on priorities that impact their constituents. Connect your advocacy efforts to your foundation’s areas of expertise—whether it’s education, healthcare, or disaster relief—to make your outreach more compelling.
4. Stay Nonpartisan
While elected officials may try to pull you into political debates, funders play a crucial role in providing unbiased information and solutions. Keep the focus on community impact, not politics.
5. Show Up and Stay Engaged
Effective advocacy requires ongoing participation. Here are some ways to stay involved:
- Monitor legislative and regulatory hearings.
- Attend briefings and government meetings.
- Participate in local government meetings (city council, school board, county commission).
- Meet with policymakers and candidates.
- Organize town hall meetings or candidate forums.
- Provide public testimony and encourage peer funders to get involved.
By engaging consistently, funders can play a key role in shaping policies that benefit their communities.
Tips for Meeting With Policymakers
Following a Foundations on the Hill event, Exponent Philanthropy staff shared key insights on how funders can have effective meetings with elected officials:
🔹 Share Real Stories – Policymakers respond best to personal, local examples. Share stories of impact from your foundation’s work and highlight mutual connections to make your case stronger.
🔹 Position Yourself as a Resource – Lawmakers may not be familiar with your foundation or the broader philanthropic sector. Educate them on your work and offer insights that can inform their decisions.
🔹 Emphasize Collaboration – Philanthropy and government funding work best together. Make it clear that your foundation’s work complements, not replaces public funding.
🔹 Maintain Ongoing Contact – One meeting isn’t enough. Keep the conversation going through follow-ups, policy updates, and invitations to visit your foundation’s projects. Trust and influence grow over time.
Your Voice Can Shape the Future
Philanthropy has a unique opportunity to influence policies that strengthen communities. By stepping into advocacy, funders can amplify their impact, shape better decision-making, and champion solutions that align with their mission.
It starts with showing up—building relationships, staying informed, and remaining committed to the issues you care about. Whether through direct meetings, community engagement, or long-term advocacy, funders have both the power and responsibility to be a voice for the causes they support.
Your presence matters. By engaging with policymakers and other stakeholders, funders can drive meaningful change and ensure that philanthropy remains a vital partner in shaping public policy.
Resources to Start Your Advocacy Journey
Advocacy Field Guide for Lean Funders
This guide gives foundations practical steps to engage in policy advocacy, from funding strategies to board engagement. With real-world examples and proven tactics, this guide helps funders maximize their influence and drive meaningful policy change. Get it here »