Emerging Topics in Philanthropy
Our new Emerging Topics in Philanthropy section explores tools for impact that are relevant to a broad range of funders. None of these topics are new; all have existed in one form or another for a long time.
However, all three topics have become more influential and relevant: There’s been well-documented, recent growth in collective giving activity. Investments in civic news and information are more critical with the closure of thousands of news outlets, leaving hundreds of communities without access to information that affects them. And there is growing evidence of the efficacy of guaranteed income to address a wide range of causes, from early childhood to health to education.
In addition to considering topics that are emerging in prominence, we also consider the relevant expertise of our network, choosing topics where we can readily provide guidance and actionable resources.
If you have an idea for an emerging topic that you would like our team to consider, please email us at impact@sp2.upenn.edu with the subject line “Emerging Topic Idea”.
Collective Giving
If you are a donor interested in impact, collective giving can be a way to learn more about causes and grantmaking, reduce risks in giving, address power inequities in traditional philanthropy, and deepen connections in your community. This philanthropic tool can be deployed alongside and in coordination with other forms of grantmaking.
Guaranteed Income
For those living in poverty, guaranteed income (GI) reduces income volatility by supplementing other programs, services, and employment that fluctuate month-to-month. In this way, GI recipients do not have to choose between meeting basic needs, paying unexpected expenses, and making health-promoting choices for themselves and their children.
News and Information
No matter what cause or community you care about, ensuring the availability of relevant, timely, and reliable news and information can amplify your impact. That’s because high-quality civic information raises awareness of issues, furthers understanding of problems, highlights promising solutions, and helps mobilize stakeholders to act collectively to improve the places they live.