A strong board is the cornerstone of a thriving foundation. But finding the right members isn’t easy. From identifying key skills to managing generational shifts, foundations face challenges in building a sustainable board pipeline. Some foundations have developed successful strategies. Others are struggling to find enough qualified candidates. Here’s what funders are doing to strengthen... Read More
As we reach the halfway point of 2025, we’re reflecting on the momentum you’ve helped build across our network of lean funders. From sharing bold new strategies to navigating uncertainty together, the first half of the year has been marked by connection, learning, and collective action. In this update, we’re excited to share highlights from... Read More
When disasters strike, people often turn to large institutions for help. However, lean funders can also play a crucial role. With strong community ties and the flexibility to move quickly, they can help meet urgent needs that larger systems might miss or take longer to address. Some foundations respond right away with emergency support. Others... Read More
Advocacy is a long game, and it can be messy at times. However, when paired with grantmaking, it becomes a powerful force for advancing systemic change, deepening relationships with grantee partners, and expanding your foundation’s knowledge and understanding of the issues you care about. Helping your board embrace a broader understanding of advocacy can shift the... Read More
Animal and environmental causes receive just 3% of all nonprofit giving, yet the ripple effects of companion animal welfare extend far beyond pets. From housing instability and public health to community safety and economic resilience, animal welfare is deeply intertwined with human well-being, especially in systemically excluded communities. At the Animal Assistance Foundation (AAF), Colorado’s... Read More
This post first appeared on The Philanthropic Initiative’s (TPI) blog. Family foundations often begin with a singular vision—a passion passed down through generations, or an individual’s desire to make a lasting difference that extends beyond their life. As these foundations grow, however, their governance needs can become more complex. Governance refers to the systems, structures, and... Read More