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
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
Navigating Legal and Financial Compliance Good governance goes beyond best practices—it ensures your foundation meets essential legal and financial requirements. This section outlines key regulations every private foundation must follow, starting with foundation law, IRS requirements, and the 990-PF tax form. You’ll also find guidance on budgeting and critical legal considerations, such as self-dealing restrictions,... Read More
Filing Form 990-PF can feel like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re managing the filing process yourself or working with a professional, staying organized throughout the year will save time and reduce stress. This guide will walk you through how to categorize expenses, keep essential... Read More
No topic within private foundation rules raises as many questions and concerns as self-dealing. The self-dealing rules prohibit a range of transactions between private foundations and their insiders (called disqualified persons) to ensure that foundation assets are used for charitable purposes rather than private benefit. Common Acts of Self-Dealing The self-dealing rules are broad and... Read More
Our highly-rated publication for members provides a wealth of information and inspiration in one easy read. In this issue: Essentials for Creating Grant Guidelines A Call for Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy Is This Self-Dealing? Three Quick Questions to Ask 7 Types of Successful Philanthropists How Racial Equity Supports Better Grantmaking Practices Grantmaking for Equity: Essential,... Read More