Advocacy Archives - Exponent Philanthropy

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Topic: “Advocacy”

Catalytic Leadership Practices: A Case Study of Philanthropy’s Role in Policy Change

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Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP) is a mindset that transforms lean funders from grantmakers into changemakers. Its four core practices—leading with purpose, centering equity, engaging deeply in community, and making long-term, flexible commitments—help funders amplify their impact and drive systemic change. This case study highlights how Michael Weinberg, program director at the Thornburg Foundation, puts these... Read More

Helping Your Board Understand Advocacy

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Advocacy is a long game, and it can be messy at times. However, when paired with grantmaking, it becomes a powerful force for advancing systemic change, deepening relationships with grantee partners, and expanding your foundation’s knowledge and understanding of the issues you care about. Helping your board embrace a broader understanding of advocacy can shift the... Read More

Philanthropy in Flux: Key Resources to Help Funders Navigate Disruption

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New legislative developments in Washington are adding fresh challenges for funders and foundations. The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” recently passed the House and now heads to the Senate, where further debate is expected. Thanks to strong sector advocacy, harmful provisions, such as revoking nonprofit status and taxing nonprofit branding, were removed before the final... Read More

Philanthropy’s Advocacy is Needed Now More Than Ever

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Last week, I attended Foundations on the Hill (FOTH) in Washington, DC, with three Exponent Philanthropy colleagues to discuss how federal policy changes impact our communities and nonprofit partners.  The 22nd FOTH brought together a record number of donors, foundation leaders, and nonprofit staff to be briefed on legislative actions and provided guidance advocacy in... Read More

Philanthropy’s Responsibility Persists: Staying the Course Amid Change 

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Recent executive orders and policy shifts have created uncertainty across the nonprofit sector, leaving many organizations grappling with potential funding cuts and operational disruptions. While some orders have been rescinded, new challenges and changes will continue to emerge in the weeks and months ahead.  In times like these, philanthropy plays a critical role in providing... Read More

Funders and Public Policy: Why Your Voice Matters

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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