To amplify and increase the impact of lean funders by building an inclusive community where they can learn, connect, and collaborate.

Our vibrant network has in common lean operations and a style of philanthropy motivated by personal passion, community needs, and a strong desire for better outcomes. Grantmakers with few or no staff are uniquely positioned to embrace Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP) in their efforts to have a real impact. 

Our Vision

Transformed communities through informed giving.

Our Values

Our warm, welcoming culture is built on the following core values:

Relationships come first. ​The strength of our community relies on genuine relationships among our members, our staff, and others in the philanthropic sector. Building strong personal connections based on trust, responsiveness, and mutual benefit is at the core of our culture and differentiates the power of our network.

One size does not fit all. We celebrate the diversity of our community and welcome all types of philanthropists. We respect that philanthropy is personal and can achieve impact through a variety of strategies.

Learning is a lifelong journey. We are committed to continual learning and facilitating the same for all who engage with us because it results in individual growth, a stronger community, more effective philanthropy, and a more powerful force for change.

Quality is essential. We insist on quality and will go the extra mile to deliver it. Our strong reputation has been earned by providing well-matched, first-rate resources and programs that reflect our mutual commitment to high ethical standards and maximizing financial and human resources.

We are inspired by our members’ impact. Our members make a profound difference in their communities every day. This inspiration fuels our passion to guide them to the answers they need, connect them to colleagues and relevant trends, and champion their efforts to address society’s most pressing challenges.