Category

Grantmaking for Equity: Essential, Fundamental Practices

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Advancing racial equity requires doing our own work as funders. All lean funders should embrace this set of fundamental practices. Some funders have begun. These actions complement a continual journey of learning about systemic racism. Exponent’s community can support and guide you along the way. Eliminate barriers to entry. Don’t impose minimum organizational size or... Read More

Standing With Grantees to Foster Transparency and Trust

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One of the most valued Exponent Philanthropy member resources is the Foundation Operations and Management Report which comes from an annual survey of the membership. The survey covers diversity and inclusion, governance, grant making focuses, investment approaches, staff utilization and more. And reflecting a broad array of voices, missions, endeavors and histories linked by a... Read More

An Open Letter From Exponent Philanthropy Board Chair, Paul Spivey

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Dear Exponent Philanthropy members, For the past 25 years, I have been involved in philanthropy as an executive, board member and donor. The intense racial strife over the past couple of weeks has compelled me to share the following personal and professional anecdotes as well as suggested solutions. Frustration, anger and fatigue are all vehemently... Read More

My Mind Is Confused. My Heart Is Heavy.

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For several days, I have struggled with how to make sense of what is happening in this country. I’ve heard commentators—black and white—prognosticate on what we must do, while trying to explain what brought us to today. I have read words from my colleagues in the philanthropic field, calling for action and offering heartfelt directions... Read More

A Call for Creative Catalytic Philanthropy

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Philanthropy doesn’t stand still. Pressing issues and seismic political, economic, and technological shifts move us to regularly revisit and renew how we work. Urgency, passion, inquisitiveness, and a desire to engage is driving a number of lean funders (those with few or no staff) to center their giving around authentic relationships with grantees and members... Read More