Philanthropy 101: Explainers
Inside Philanthropy’s Explainers outline philanthropy basics, defining key terms and elucidating important debates that animate the philanthropy world.
Explainers help you cut through all the jargon in order to become a more informed and effective grant seeker, fundraiser or donor. You’ll find explanations on topics ranging from What is a private foundation? to What Can – and Can’t – Philanthropy Do in Terms of Advocacy, Policy and Politics?
Explainers also support seasoned philanthropists ready to catch up on the latest debates animating the philanthropy world (should foundation payout be higher?), as well as development professionals looking to brush up on the details. If you’re totally new to philanthropy, start with our Philanthropy Primer.
Topics
What is a Community Foundation?
What is General Operating Support?
What is a Philanthropy-Serving Organization?
What is Program or Project Support?
Key Debate: Who Should Decide What Gets Funded?
Key Question: Is the Growth of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) a Good or Bad Thing?
What Can—and Can’t—Philanthropy Do in Terms of Advocacy, Policy, and Politics?
How Do Foundations Make Grantmaking Decisions?
What is a Corporate Foundation?
What is a Letter of Inquiry (LOI)?
What is a Philanthropic Intermediary?
What is a Donor Collaborative?
Key Debate: Should Foundation Payout be Higher?
What is Philanthropy Doing—or Not Doing—to Address Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?
What is the Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Requests?
What Are Regional Associations of Grantmakers?
What is a Crowdfunding Platform?
What’s the Difference Between a 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4)?
Key Debate: Multi-year General Operating Support vs. Project Support
What Are In-kind Contributions?
What Do the Terms “Perpetuity” and “Spend Down” Mean?
