Philanthropy Northwest

Philanthropy Northwest is a regional network of foundations and grantmaking organizations, and a fiscal sponsor of projects to promote and drive philanthropic impact across the United States. The Seattle-based organization was founded in 1976 and belongs to the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers.

Mission

Philanthropy Northwest promotes, facilitates and drives collaborative action by philanthropic organizations to strengthen communities in our region.

Structure

Under the leadership of CEO Jeff Clarke since January 2014, Philanthropy Northwest includes a 6-state member network, a consulting practice, and fiscal sponsorship of two national projects.

• Member Network: More than 170 family, corporate, private and public foundations and grantmaking organizations in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Wyoming and Washington belong to this regional association. Sustaining members include The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Boeing Company, Casey Family Programs, JPMorgan Chase and Microsoft Corporation. A biennial Trends in Northwest Giving report surveys foundations and companies in this 6-state region AbOUT their charitable giving.

• The Giving Practice: A consulting team that works with philanthropic entities in the Northwest and nationally to develop strategy, improve governance, learn from experience and guide productive collaborations.
• Mission Investors Exchange: A network of more than 200 foundations, philanthropic organizations and financial institutions using mission investments to achieve their philanthropic goals.

• Community Democracy Workshop: A 5-year project to explore how philanthropists can work more effectively with local partners to identify interests, negotiate tangible solutions and play a foundational role in a thriving democracy.

Publications

Philanthropy Northwest produces research and reports on topics of philanthropic interest regionally and nationally. Publications released in 2014 include Philanthropy and the Renewal of Democracy: Is It Time to Step Up Our Game? and Vision and Voice: The Role of Leadership and Dialogue in Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.