The Good People Fund, led by Julie Fisher, adopts 'venture capitalist' approach to philanthropy, focusing on early-stage social innovators in Israe...
The Good People Fund, a New Jersey-based grantmaker established in 2008, is now under the leadership of Executive Director Julie Fisher, who took over on July 1. The organization operates with a unique philanthropic model, described as 'venture capitalists of the tzedakah world,' by identifying and supporting visionary changemakers in the early stages of their initiatives. This approach involves providing annual grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, often serving as the initial international funding for Israeli nonprofits. The fund also offers comprehensive 'wraparound support,' including mentoring, legal assistance for 501(c)(3) status, and financial guidance. Currently, The Good People Fund supports 62 grantees, with 27 located in Israel. Fisher, who previously lived in Israel as the spouse of the U.S. ambassador, emphasizes the fund's commitment to long-term relationships with its grantees, often extending support for three to ten years, rather than a typical three-year funding cycle.
