What's Happening?
Heather Gerken, President of the Ford Foundation, has announced a significant strategic overhaul, refocusing the grant maker's efforts squarely on strengthening democracies and ensuring access to economic opportunity for all. This marks the first major
strategic reset for the foundation since 2014, when former president Darren Walker prioritized equity. Gerken, a constitutional law expert who assumed the presidency in January, stated that the world's democratic institutions are under threat, necessitating this shift. The new plan, approved by Ford's trustees, will condense the foundation's program areas from 19 to seven and increase both the number and size of multiyear grants. The seven core focus areas will include protecting democratic governance, building just economies, defending trustworthy information, public safety, gender equality, global cooperation, and racial justice. The foundation will also establish an office of innovation and a separate racial justice fund.
Why It's Important?
This 'seismic' shift by the Ford Foundation, with its substantial $18 billion in assets, is highly significant for the philanthropic sector and civil society organizations. By concentrating its resources on democracy and economic inclusion, the foundation aims to provide more stable and impactful support through larger, multiyear grants, reducing the administrative burden on grantees. This approach is particularly crucial at a time when, as noted by Anthony Romero of the ACLU, democratic institutions are facing challenges. The foundation's explicit support for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and vulnerable populations, stands in contrast to some current political trends. Patrick Gaspard of the Center for American Progress suggests that Ford's move could influence other foundations, potentially leading to a broader shift in philanthropic strategies towards long-term, systemic change.
What's Next?
Over the next 14 months, the Ford Foundation will refine its strategies and transition existing grantees. Some grantees whose work does not align with the new vision will see their support wind down, though Gerken emphasizes that many existing areas, such as disability rights, climate, and the arts, will be integrated into the new funding categories. The foundation will divide its staff into three groups: one for new plans, one for maintaining existing grants, and one for assisting transitioning grantees. This structured approach aims to ensure a respectful and intentional transition. The foundation will also continue to explore new ways of generating social change beyond traditional grant-making, with Noorain Khan appointed as the first chief innovation officer. The long-term impact will depend on how effectively the new strategy addresses complex societal challenges and influences the broader philanthropic landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The Ford Foundation's decision to root its new strategy in a 1950 report by H. Rowan Gaither, which emphasized freedom of speech, tolerance, the rule of law, and self-government as prerequisites for human welfare, is a 'master stroke' in addressing historical criticisms. This move strategically counters arguments that the foundation has strayed from its original intent, providing a historical justification for its focus on progressive causes. The challenge of reducing polarization and governing effectively in a polarized environment is a key consideration for Gerken, indicating a nuanced approach to democratic strengthening. While some grantees in subsumed areas express concerns about reduced visibility for specific issues, the foundation's commitment to integrating these into broader categories suggests an understanding of their interconnectedness. This strategic pivot reflects a growing recognition within philanthropy that systemic issues require integrated, long-term solutions.
