Equity Archives - Exponent Philanthropy

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Topic: “Equity”

How Can Lean Funders Proactively Advance Racial Equity? Don’t Go It Alone

In recent years, efforts to incorporate antiracism into philanthropic work have surged. But what does this mean for lean funders who may not have the capacity to launch major initiatives? At Brady Education Foundation, we focus on addressing disparities in educational opportunities associated with race, ethnicity, and family income. Our mission is clearly aligned with... Read More

Equitable Grantmaking: Essential, Fundamental Practices

To make an outsized and lasting impact in their communities and issue areas, grantmakers must be intentional about equity and inclusion within their boards, governance, and funding efforts. The journey towards equitable grantmaking is not merely about ticking boxes; it’s a transformative process that demands introspection, learning, and action. While adopting equitable grantmaking practices serves... Read More

Moving Towards Racial Equity in Philanthropy: Developing a Shared Language

Philanthropy relies on the amassed wealth of families and institutions that have benefited from systemic racism. As a result, the institution has a power imbalance in where funds go and what organizations and initiatives receive support. Developing a deeper understanding of institutional racism in the United States can help lean funders dismantle the harmful practices... Read More

Social Justice Investing: Aligning Portfolios With a Social Justice Mission

Social justice refers to everyone in society having equal access to the social determinants of health including economic stability; education access and quality; health care access and quality; neighborhood and built environment; and social and community content. For investors, a widening income inequality gap can change risk and return expectations across investment opportunities and may... Read More

We Need More Disability Inclusive Philanthropy

As foundations strive to create a more equitable world, they must not overlook the importance of disability inclusive philanthropy. Individuals with disabilities make up about 27% of the U.S. population. Yet, they’re consistently underrepresented on foundation boards and staff. Our 2024 Foundation Operations and Management Report found that just 11% of participating foundations had at... Read More

Disaggregated Data Collection and Use by Lean Foundations

Foundations play a critical role in advancing equity and addressing disparities in our society. One key practice that foundations are increasingly adopting is the collection and use of disaggregated data. Disaggregated data refers to the separation of compiled information into smaller units based on various characteristics such as age, sex, geographic area, education, ethnicity, or... Read More