I see dozens of funders around the country making change—catalyzing new ways of doing and thinking—without the support of a sizeable staff. This kind of change is bigger in scope than starting a new nonprofit organization, or helping a promising organization serve more people. Changemaking by small-staffed funders is transforming how people think about and... Read More
Responding to dramatic changes in public policy in 2017, many foundation leaders have tailored their strategies and tactics in continued pursuit of their missions. Armed with clear focus, experience, and strong networks, these foundations are modeling good philanthropic practice that is worth noticing. Recently, dozens of funders gathered at Associated Grant Makers (AGM) to discuss... Read More
In April, Exponent Philanthropy fielded a survey to learn how our community is responding to COVID-19, and more than 900 lean funders responded. We’re still analyzing the data and further engaging respondents, but we want to share a high-level overview. Have lean funders changed their funding in response to COVID-19? In a word, yes. Nearly... Read More
No matter your political or philosophical orientation, nor how you voted in the election, we can likely agree on the continued polarization and erosion of civil discourse in our country. There are any number of factors exacerbating our inability to talk to one another in a civil way: political upheaval, increased racial tensions, the economic... Read More
As CEO of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, Anne Marie Dougherty’s approach to philanthropy is entrepreneurial, data-driven, and systems-oriented. Under Anne Marie’s leadership, the foundation is breaking out of the veteran philanthropy silo and embracing the business world. They’re helping partners understand their contributions as an investment in the well-being of veterans and their families, but... Read More
“When philanthropy partners, communities prosper.” This theme resounded throughout our 2023 Annual Conference, where members from all 50 states and every type of community gathered with 500+ peers in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor to learn and make meaningful connections. Here are some highlights from the event: Creating Lasting Impact In our opening plenary, Wizipan Little Elk Garriott,... Read More