What's Happening?
The Ford Foundation has decided to terminate its Building Institutions and Networks (BUILD) program as it transitions to new leadership under Heather Gerken. The BUILD program, initiated in 2015 with a $1
billion commitment, aimed to provide long-term, flexible grants to social justice nonprofits. In 2021, the foundation committed another $1 billion to extend the program through 2026. However, the program is being discontinued to allow Gerken more freedom to shape the foundation's future initiatives. The BUILD program was recognized for its trust-based philanthropy approach, offering multi-year, no-strings-attached grants, and was praised for its positive impact on grantees. Despite its success, the program's closure has raised questions among philanthropy observers about the foundation's decision to end a program that had been effective and well-received.
Why It's Important?
The termination of the BUILD program marks a significant shift in the Ford Foundation's approach to philanthropy. The program was instrumental in supporting social justice organizations, providing them with the stability needed to navigate economic uncertainties. Its closure could impact the funding landscape for nonprofits that relied on BUILD's long-term support. The decision reflects the foundation's strategic priorities under new leadership, potentially influencing how other philanthropic organizations approach grant-making. The move also highlights the challenges nonprofits face when foundations change their funding strategies, which can lead to uncertainty and require adaptation to new funding models.
What's Next?
As the Ford Foundation transitions to new leadership, Heather Gerken is expected to outline her vision for the foundation's future. The foundation has committed to honoring existing grant agreements and providing support to grantees through the Life After BUILD Support (LABS) program. This program aims to help grantees transition to new funding sources or secure additional support from other Ford programs. The philanthropic community will be watching closely to see how Gerken's leadership influences the foundation's priorities and whether it will continue to support social justice initiatives in new ways.
Beyond the Headlines
The end of the BUILD program may prompt discussions within the philanthropic sector about the sustainability of trust-based philanthropy and the importance of long-term funding commitments. The program's closure could lead to increased advocacy for similar funding models that prioritize grantee autonomy and long-term stability. Additionally, the transition at the Ford Foundation may serve as a case study for other organizations undergoing leadership changes, highlighting the balance between continuity and innovation in philanthropic strategies.
