Various dates | 45-minute virtual sessions (Zoom)
As federal policies shift and funding streams face disruption, nonprofits are under growing pressure to make complex decisions with limited information. While some organizations have access to attorneys, lobbyists, and policy experts, many others do not, and face heightened risks as they navigate legal uncertainty, contract changes, and compliance challenges.
Two longtime nonprofit leaders, Kate Houstoun and Peter Gonzales, led a regional analysis supported by Philadelphia Foundation, engaging dozens of nonprofit leaders, intermediaries, and funders to assess emerging risks and needs facing the sector. Based on this work, they developed a set of independent recommendations for funders to consider.
While much remains uncertain, Kate and Peter concluded that many of the sector’s most urgent questions can be answered, if connected to the right help. Their recommendations are designed to:
- Improve information flow so nonprofits can access timely, consistent guidance;
- Expand capacity through technical assistance, leadership development, scenario planning, and nonprofit transitions;
- Build legal and policy supports to help organizations navigate complex risks and regulations;
- Explore collaborative funding approaches to implement these solutions efficiently and at scale.
The goal of these sessions is to explore how philanthropy might coordinate shared investments that strengthen the sector’s capacity and resilience. In small groups, participants will have the opportunity to hear emerging proposals, ask questions, and contribute perspectives on where coordination may be most valuable. These conversations are intended to complement and not replace direct support to grantees.
Sessions will be co-led by Kate Houstoun, Peter Gonzales, and Michael Kellerman.