
Inside Exponents Conference: Community, Connection & Amplified Impact
The video recaps Exponent’s annual conference, emphasizing community, connection, and amplified impact among philanthropy professionals. Attendees praised the inclusive, ego‑free environment, noting participants range from family foundations in Montana to community foundations in Florida, and that the network now exceeds 1,500 members across all U.S. states and four continents. The shift from a funder‑centric model to collaborative partnerships with nonprofits was highlighted as a key trend. Speakers quoted, “We’re no longer the funders; nonprofits are the experts delivering services,” and stressed the value of peer relationships for decision‑making and upskilling. Advice to newcomers included staying active in webinars and leveraging the network. The conference’s 30‑year milestone signals Exponent’s growing influence, positioning it as a catalyst for best‑practice sharing and scaling impact across the philanthropy sector.

What If Young People Helped Shape Your Grantmaking?
Lean funders are urged to add youth philanthropy to their portfolios as a strategic investment in community resilience. Programs like the Doll Family Foundation’s initiatives and the Community Foundation for MetroWest’s Youth in Philanthropy engage hundreds of students in real...

Private Foundation Self-Dealing: 5 Violations You Don’t See Coming
Private foundations face strict self‑dealing rules that prohibit any financial benefit to disqualified persons, regardless of intent or market value. Common pitfalls include below‑market leases, shared services, fulfilling personal pledges, indirect benefits, and seemingly minor expense reimbursements. The Exponent Philanthropy...