Can you share benchmarking data on the average number of paid staff for lean foundations by asset size? - Exponent Philanthropy

Can you share benchmarking data on the average number of paid staff for lean foundations by asset size?

Yes. According to the 2026 Foundation Operations & Management Report, staff size increases steadily with asset size among foundations with few or no staff.

Across all participating foundations, the average was 4 paid staff (median: 3). As expected, foundations with larger asset bases tend to employ more staff, though many remain relatively lean even at higher asset levels.

For more detailed staffing benchmarks—including full-time/part-time breakdowns, compensation, and benefits data—explore the full 2026 Foundation Operations & Management Report.

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