Philanthropy thrives when it listens, learns, and evolves to meet the needs of the communities it serves. In recent years, lean funders have increasingly recognized that racial equity is not an optional add-on but central to their mission, regardless of focus area. Yet, as this report shows, progress is neither uniform nor assured. While some... Read More
For many foundations and non-profits, grantmaking is a cornerstone of their mission and funding strategy. Whether you are designing a new program or re-envisioning an existing one, a critical but often challenging step is aligning your program’s strategy and impact with your organization’s mission, vision, and values. Taking a step-by-step approach is key: craft a... Read More
Similar to any business, your foundation should have a succession plan that establishes key roles and identifies future leaders. A comprehensive plan can help steer your organization through moments of transition—whether expected or unexpected—to ensure continuity. Maintaining Stability During Times of Transition At some point, every foundation and its board will face a leadership transition... Read More
Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP) is a mindset that transforms lean funders from grantmakers into changemakers. Its key skills—listening deeply, building strong relationships, and understanding the landscape—help funders stay grounded in their communities and use every asset at their disposal, not just dollars, to spark lasting change. This case study highlights how Sheena Solomon, executive... Read More
The Outsized Impact Award celebrates an individual from an Exponent Philanthropy member organization whose giving has achieved results that are greater than expected. Get to know the 2025 finalists below. Jessica Olson Grants Director, John T. Vucurevich Foundation As Grants Director of the John T. Vucurevich Foundation (JTVF) in Rapid City, South Dakota, Jessica Olson has... Read More
Imagine your neighborhood, town, city, or rural community is facing a significant need or an exciting opportunity, yet it is lacking the financial resources to respond. Too often, the funding and decisions that shape our communities are made far from home without local voices at the table. Even when wealth has been built from the... Read More