Racial Equity in Lean Foundations - Exponent Philanthropy

Racial Equity in Lean Foundations

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The Lean Funder’s Equity Journey

Racial equity is crucial to effective philanthropy, and lean foundations—those with few or no staff—are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact. Our 2024 publication, “Racial Equity in Lean Foundations: The Lean Funder’s Equity Journey,” delves into how these foundations are incorporating racial equity into their work to drive better decisions, achieve more equitable outcomes, and amplify their philanthropic impact.

 What’s Inside:

  • A Deep Dive into Racial Equity: Learn about the current landscape of racial equity within lean foundations and why diversity in leadership matters more than ever.
  • Models for Starting Equity Conversations: Discover the different approaches lean foundations are using to engage in equity work and start impactful conversations about race.
  • Phases of the Equity Journey: Uncover the four phases that define a lean foundation’s path toward racial equity, from initial exploration to shifting power to communities.

The Importance of Racial Equity in Lean Foundations

    Race is often the most consistent predictor of inequities in society. From economic security to health outcomes and access to a clean environment, racial and ethnic disparities are widespread. Lean foundations must understand how race and racism contribute to unequal outcomes to achieve impact in their communities and issue areas.

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    Download “Racial Equity in Lean Foundations: The Lean Funder’s Equity Journey” to explore in-depth insights, strategies, and models that can help your foundation enhance its commitment to racial equity.

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    Table of Contents

    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

    INTRODUCTION

    PART ONE: THE STATE OF RACIAL EQUITY IN LEAN FOUNDATIONS

    • Lean Foundation Board and Staff Demographics
    • Racial Equity Practices
    • Grantmaking and Non-grant Strategies to Support Racial Equity
    • Key Findings

    PART TWO: THE LEAN FUNDERS’ EQUITY JOURNEY

    • Who Drives Equity Conversations at Lean Foundations
    • How Lean Funders Engage the Foundation’s Board in Racial Equity Work
    • Mapping the Lean Funder’s Equity Journey
    • Key Insights

    CONCLUSION: HOW TO STAY ENGAGED

    APPENDIX A: MEMBER AND PARTNER STORIES AND RESOURCES

    • Exponent Philanthropy Blog Posts
    • Additional Exponent Philanthropy Publications
    • Additional Resources
    • Leaders in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Effort

    APPENDIX B: EXPONENT PHILANTHROPY’S RACIAL EQUITY JOURNEY TO DATE

    APPENDIX C: SURVEY RESPONDENTS AND METHODOLOGY

    • Who Responded
    • Survey Methods and Limitations
    • Qualitative Information

    68 pages