What's Happening?
CHANGE Philanthropy has launched the Level Up campaign, urging funders to increase their grantmaking by 20% or more, or to deliver an endowment payout rate of 8% or higher for at least two fiscal years. This initiative comes as nonprofits face financial
strain due to reduced public and private support. Over 40 grantmakers, including major foundations, have pledged to move more than $500 million over two years. The campaign emphasizes flexible, responsive, and transparent grantmaking practices, aiming to support nonprofits in crisis and address long-term funding challenges. The initiative also seeks to direct additional resources to underfunded communities.
Why It's Important?
The Level Up campaign addresses critical funding gaps in the nonprofit sector, which has been severely impacted by economic downturns and policy changes. By encouraging increased grantmaking, the initiative aims to stabilize nonprofits that provide essential services and support social justice causes. The campaign's focus on transparency and flexibility in funding practices aligns with sector advocates' calls for more equitable resource distribution. This effort could lead to a shift in philanthropic strategies, promoting sustainability and resilience in the nonprofit sector. The increased funding is expected to empower organizations to continue their work in underserved communities, fostering social change and equity.
What's Next?
The Level Up campaign will continue to engage with additional foundations, encouraging them to commit to the pledge. CHANGE Philanthropy plans to present the initiative at various conferences and compile case studies to document the impact of increased funding. The campaign's success will depend on the willingness of funders to adopt new grantmaking practices and prioritize long-term community investments. As the economic landscape evolves, the initiative may influence broader philanthropic trends, potentially leading to more systemic changes in how resources are allocated to address social issues.
