{"id":28031,"date":"2024-01-18T00:00:44","date_gmt":"2024-01-18T08:00:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pro-migration.local\/?p=28031"},"modified":"2025-06-10T11:36:29","modified_gmt":"2025-06-10T18:36:29","slug":"trust-based-philanthropy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gofundme.to\/__proxy\/pro.gofundme.com\/c\/blog\/trust-based-philanthropy\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Educate Nonprofit Grantmakers on the Value of Trust-Based Philanthropy"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the dynamic landscape of philanthropy, where nonprofits strive to make a meaningful impact, the role of grantmakers and intermediary funders is pivotal. As organizations dedicated to positive change, grantees rely on their grantmakers\u2019 partnership to provide financial support and cultivate lasting relationships.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s where the concept of trust-based philanthropy comes into play.<\/p>\n

Traditionally, grantmaking practices have functioned in top-down, transactional models focusing primarily on due diligence and measurable outcomes. However, a growing movement within the philanthropic sector is advocating for a paradigm shift.<\/p>\n

Trust-based philanthropy aims to transform typical power dynamics between funders and grantees, emphasizing strong grantee relationships, community expertise, collaboration, openness, and a deeper understanding of nonprofits’ challenges.<\/p>\n

Below, we explore the various facets of trust-based philanthropy and discuss three key value propositions of this approach to leverage when advocating for these principles in the trust-based grantmaking process. We’ll also discuss how fostering trust can lead to more impactful partnerships, improved relationship-building, stronger communities, and a deeper sense of purpose for grantmakers and nonprofits.<\/p>\n

Rethinking Philanthropy<\/h2>\n

The Whitman Institute\u2019s\u00a0Trust-Based Philanthropy Project<\/a>\u00a0coined \u201ctrust-based philanthropy\u201d in 2014 to emphasize how establishing and maintaining trust between funders and the nonprofit organizations they support can result in true impact through collaboration, not control.<\/p>\n

This approach is a response to traditional philanthropic practices, marked by rigid reporting requirements, restrictive funding structures, and short-term grant cycles, which can foster power imbalances and hinder the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations.<\/p>\n

It only continues gaining traction as philanthropists seek more effective ways to address complex social issues and maximize the impact of their giving with the assistance of committed stakeholders.<\/p>\n

Trust-based funding includes principles like:<\/p>\n