The Principles that Make Women’s Philanthropy Work
Six principles create successful women’s philanthropy.
Organizations that strategically employ these six principles when working with those who identify as women are achieving their goals faster, and are realizing increased and multi-pronged philanthropic investment from this critical constituent group.
These principles work, and are fundamental tenets that serve as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.
Together they invigorate philanthropy programs and solidify a program’s ability to thrive.
1. Strategy begins with insight.
Pausing to learn, while seemingly counter-intuitive, is essential to gain the awareness that effective strategy is dependent upon. Successful organizations resist the urge to jump in, and instead pause to review industry research, their own donor data, and how their practices could better resonate with donors.
2. Women’s input is key.
The most valuable insights come from donors themselves. Successful organizations ask women about their motivations, preferences, and goals. Organizations that intentionally solicit input discover that women share ideas and strategies that can accelerate fundraising
3. Women give more than money.
Women embrace a broad definition of philanthropy. In addition to finances, they bring their talents, time, networks, and voice to the causes they care about. Successful organizations engage women donors, volunteers, and leaders in ways that acknowledge this holistic approach to philanthropy.
4. Leadership involvement is pivotal.
Successful organizations have leadership involvement that fundamentally alters the path and scope of success. Organizational decision makers control the vision, strategic priorities, and ability to move resources that allow for real transformation and big outcomes.
5. Starting reveals the path forward.
Successful organizations realize they are creating something new with few precedents, so they start with a first initiative. They know that the success of their initial women’s philanthropy effort opens up awareness of other areas where women’s support can help their mission flourish.
6. The work is evolutionary.
Successful organizations know this work is not a “program” with a singular end game. Over time, they integrate practices that lead to significant cultural shifts that engage all donors. This results in more diverse partners and funding to achieve their desired impact.
Organizations that have fully embraced these principles in their fundraising strategies have experienced significant increases in philanthropic investment and constituent engagement.