Investment fees intertwine with market ups and downs, and both are integral to a foundation’s investment strategy. In low-return environments, higher fees could be a hindrance to higher return, but they might be necessary to reach to that higher return. It is more important than ever to be aware of the fees and costs so... Read More
During the pandemic, I dove headfirst into the great wide world of podcasts. Since then, I’ve listened to tens of thousands of hours across a variety of subjects. Here are 8 thought-provoking episodes I think would benefit anyone working in philanthropy. What are your favorite podcasts and podcast episodes? Please let us know in the... Read More
The pandemic reminded us of something we already knew; there’s no substitute for being in the same room. But the hunger to connect runs deeper than COVID. The U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health epidemic in 2023, and noted that approximately half of American adults were already experiencing loneliness before the pandemic even... Read More
Public policy shapes the very issues funders care about—education, healthcare, economic development, and beyond. Yet many funders hesitate to engage, unsure of their role or the impact they can have. The truth? Policymakers see philanthropy as a valuable partner. Funders bring deep community knowledge, flexible resources, and innovative solutions that can inform better policies. Even... Read More
Federal funding is a critical lifeline for many nonprofits, including those supported by Exponent Philanthropy members. When disruptions arise—whether from policy shifts, executive orders, or legal challenges—nonprofits may encounter delayed payments, uncertainty about future grants, and cash flow challenges that threaten their programs and operations. For leanly staffed foundations, staying informed isn’t just about awareness—it’s... Read More
In today’s rapidly changing world, where urgent needs, economic uncertainty, and a historic transfer of wealth are reshaping philanthropy, foundations are reexamining a core question: Should they exist in perpetuity or spend down their assets within a set timeframe? This debate isn’t new, but it feels especially relevant as funders weigh their desire for a... Read More
