Women’s Philanthropy Institute

?????? Women are leading the way in philanthropy This year’s Philanthropy 50 from the The Chronicle of Philanthropy highlights 11 incredible women who are making a profound impact through their giving—including Ruth Gottesman, Melinda French Gates, Sheryl Sandberg, and Michele Kang. At WPI, our research has consistently shown that women give more, give differently, and prioritize community impact. Their philanthropy extends beyond dollars—it's about shaping a better future. From funding education to global health, these women are setting the standard for transformative giving. Their generosity reflects a growing trend: when women lead in philanthropy, entire communities benefit. ?? Read the full report to see how these donors—and so many others—are making a difference: https://bit.ly/4i2g0NM ?? Find our research series on women’s giving here: https://lnkd.in/eD2cVZm4 #WomenGive #Philanthropy50 #WomensPhilanthropy #LeadingWithImpact #GivingTrends

??Women are at the forefront of spend-down philanthropy, leading foundations that prioritize immediate impact over perpetuity. Our research has shown that women’s philanthropy is often driven by empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to systemic change. This article explores how women are reshaping the philanthropic sector—and whether they are being placed in uniquely demanding leadership roles. ?? Read more in Alliance magazine: https://lnkd.in/dqkWFwMu Should spend-down foundations become the norm? Share your thoughts in the comments. #WomenGive #Philanthropy #Leadership #Impact

On this #InternationalWomensDay, we celebrate women’s philanthropy—its power to create lasting change. ?? Through our Women Give series, we research women’s charitable giving, and with the Women & Girls Index, we raise awareness around support for organizations directed at women and girls. Together, we can make a difference. Let’s keep the momentum going! This #IWD2025, consider how WPI research can inform your philanthropy. Tag a cause you care about in the comments! ??Women Give Series: https://lnkd.in/eD2cVZm4 ??Women & Girls Index: https://lnkd.in/gkUnWMyJ #WomenGive #WGI #GiveToWomenAndGirls

ICYMI: Watch the recording of our latest webinar! Missed last week’s discussion on 20 years of women’s philanthropy? You can now watch WPI Interim Director Jacqueline Ackerman’s presentation on key gender and giving trends—exploring how women’s philanthropy has evolved amid economic and societal shifts. ?? Moderated by Angela Seaworth, Ph.D., MBA, ACFRE ?? Hosted by Texas A&M University - The Bush School of Government and Public Service Center for Nonprofits & Philanthropy Catch up on the insights and watch the full webinar here: https://lnkd.in/gGFsDyY8 #WomenGive #Philanthropy #Leadership

How has women’s philanthropy evolved over the past two decades? Following the release of?Women Give 2024: 20 Years of Gender & Giving Trends, WPI Interim Director Jacqueline Ackerman shares her insights on the key findings.

?? Donors Are Down, but Dollars Are Up: A recent study from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy reveals key trends in U.S. charitable giving. Key Findings: ?? Overall Donations: Americans donated $557 billion in 2023, but participation fell to 45.8%—down from 66.2% in 2000. ?? Increased Giving: While fewer people are donating, those who do give are contributing more—average annual gifts rose from $3,131 in 2018 to $3,651 in 2020. ?? Influencing Factors: Cultural shifts, economic conditions, and tax policy changes are impacting giving trends. Our research at WPI shows that engaging women donors is vital. Women tend to give more frequently and significantly contribute to charitable causes. Understanding these trends helps us foster a more inclusive philanthropic landscape. ?? Read more in The Chronicle of Philanthropy: https://lnkd.in/ge5yKABH ? #Philanthropy #WomenDonors #WomenGive

?? Research shows that nonprofits can significantly boost donations by using diverse messaging strategies in their online fundraising campaigns! A recent study by researchers Abhishek Bhati and Diarmuid McDonnell reveals that nonprofits that employ various approaches—such as expressing gratitude, sharing their mission, and highlighting the impact of their work—receive more donations compared to those that use a single type of message. ??At WPI, we understand that effective communication is key to engaging donors. Our research on encouraging giving to women and girls causes underscores the importance of social norms; when people observe rising interest in giving to these causes, they are more likely to contribute themselves. By varying their messages and focusing on community engagement, nonprofits can not only increase donations but also foster lasting connections with their supporters. ??What strategies does your nonprofit use? Let us know in the comments! ? ?? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/g3vE7EpV ?? Discover insights from WPI’s social norms study: https://lnkd.in/guX-Ar73 #WomensPhilanthropy #Philanthropy #Nonprofits

??New research from Bank of America reveals the increasing influence of women in philanthropy. A remarkable 85% of affluent women either influence or make household giving decisions, aligning their contributions with their deeply held values. ??This highlights the importance of understanding women's motivations in philanthropy and the significant impact they have on charitable trends and social change. Explore the findings and insights here: https://lnkd.in/gW6dXvxZ #WomensPhilanthropy #WomenGive #Philanthropy?

New research from Outright International examines the impact of the U.S. government’s 90-day foreign aid freeze on LGBTQIA+ organizations worldwide. ?? This report covers disruptions caused by the freeze, such as staff layoffs, program closures and increased risks for marginalized communities. It outlines recommendations for private philanthropy to fill funding gaps through advocacy, research and economic sustainability.? For more insights, check out the full article Alliance magazine here: https://lnkd.in/gKHwTWKb #LGBTQIA #OutRightInternational #GlobalPhilanthropy

??Women’s philanthropy is making a lasting impact. A new report from the Center for Effective Philanthropy highlights how MacKenzie Scott’s $19.2 billion in unrestricted giving has helped nonprofits strengthen finances, leadership, and community reach. Her approach reflects key trends in women’s giving: trust-based philanthropy, long-term impact, and investment in mission-driven organizations. ?? Read the report to learn more: https://lnkd.in/gwxHvTgf #WomenGive #Philanthropy #TrustBasedGiving #Impact