We’re in a pivotal moment for civil society. Nonprofits are on the front lines of supporting communities across the United States—and philanthropy is a critical partner. As a mission-driven consulting firm working with both nonprofits and funders nationwide, we’re uniquely positioned to hear what’s working—and what’s not. What we’re hearing strongly echoes the principles of... Read More
Note: Glenmede’s research and strategy teams are working continuously to review new data and market events. We welcome conversations with Glenmede if you have questions about the impacts for your foundation. President Trump’s tariff announcements on April 2 were broader than expected and have led to a negative global equity market reaction. Economic implications... Read More
Philanthropy is constantly evolving. Pressing issues and major political, economic, and technological shifts push funders to reassess their approach. Some lean funders—those with few or no staff—stand out by centering their giving on authentic relationships with grantees and community members. Exponent Philanthropy calls this approach Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP), a mindset and practice that... Read More
Investments: Managing Foundation Assets for Greater Impact Imagine a foundation with $10 million in assets. To meet the 5% distribution requirement, it must allocate $500,000 annually. While foundations carefully manage their grant distributions, what happens to the remaining $9.5 million? This section explores how foundations manage investments, including oversight responsibilities and key fiduciary principles. Smart... Read More
Grantmaking Strategy: Maximizing Your Foundation’s Impact Grantmaking is the culmination of your foundation’s efforts and defines its impact. A strong grantmaking strategy starts with clear goals and well-structured requirements for grantees, making grant management smoother and funding more effective. However, successful grantmaking goes beyond just distributing funds—it involves deeper engagement. Understanding nonprofit financials helps assess... Read More
Building a Strong Foundation Board: A Guide A well-run foundation starts with a strong board, no matter its legal structure. As a board member, you shape policies, set expectations, and ensure good governance. This guide covers essential topics, including: Onboarding new members Understanding key legal responsibilities Differentiating between board and advisory committees Navigating leadership transitions... Read More