These findings offer a powerful snapshot of where philanthropy is evolving and where gaps continue. We encourage you to explore and share the report with your communities. This report will provide insights to continue strengthening grantmaking practices and deepen our impact in collaboration with the nonprofits and communities we serve.
We’re excited to share that Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) has now released the 2025 National Study of Philanthropic Practice — our most comprehensive look yet at how funders are evolving to meet the needs of nonprofits and communities. You may remember that earlier this year you requested to receive a copy of the report when it was ready, and we’re pleased to provide it to you today.
Drawing on data from 765 staffed foundations across the U.S., the study highlights progress and gaps in how philanthropy advances equity-centered and community-driven practices.
Key insights include:
- Equity is central to grantmaking strategy. 74% of grantmakers say diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to their strategy — up from 45% who said it was central or essential in 2017.
- Grantmakers are shifting power through participatory grantmaking. 42% of funders engage in participatory grantmaking, with higher rates among those who say equity is very central.
- Flexible and multiyear funding are gaining momentum. 87% of grantmakers now provide multiyear funding, and median general operating support has risen to 38% of grantmaking budgets.
- In practice, the 5% payout is no longer the floor. More than half of endowed foundations spend above 5% of their assets annually.
- Capacity-building support is slipping. Only 77% of grantmakers provide capacity-building support – down from 86% in 2017 – even as nonprofits face increased strain.
The GEO team
Grantmakers for Effective Organizations
1310 L Street NW, Suite 650
Washington, DC 20005
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