Benefunder is fueling innovation by providing a marketplace for researchers and philanthropists to come together to solve some of the biggest problems facing our world. Consider these statistics: 50% of wealth creation in the U.S. since WWII can be directly attributed to a research grant. Research impacts all cause areas: environment, life sciences, technology, education, and... Read More
Every philanthropist or philanthropic organization means well—it’s the nature of the business after all. And, as philanthropies, we all try to make decisions that are in service to our missions, represent good stewardship, and result in the greatest impact. But sometimes, in making those very decisions, we unintentionally do more to damage our impact than... Read More
I’ve been on local television for nearly 30 years, and the recognition that comes with it (especially to an older demographic) drives my 9-year-old son crazy. So when a middle-aged gentleman stopped me in the parking lot of a local restaurant a couple weeks ago, and wanted to know if I was “the news man,”... Read More
Everyone wants to help during a crisis, and, for many, that means giving money. But few understand what it takes to distribute funds to the people, businesses, or nonprofits that will create the greatest impact and fulfill the most need—especially if the money lives in different funds at different organizations. Enter community foundations, which are... Read More
It’s time to recapture what is powerful about giving. Philanthropy is more than just transferring money. It’s about using passion, knowledge, connections, dollars, and your voice to make change on important issues. Research by Exponent Philanthropy reveals two qualities that put funders on the road to change making: passion for an issue and a curiosity... Read More
Three funders became activists, brokers, advocates, and catalysts for change. These are their stories. The 1772 Foundation: Creating a revolution by practicing historic preservation The 1772 Foundation in Rhode Island became an expert in its national funding focus: historic preservation. By developing deep knowledge and insight, and paying careful attention to new ideas, it nurtured... Read More