This session, part of Catalyst Now’s Fundraising Masterclass Learning Series, delves into the principles and practices of trust-based philanthropy. It emphasizes the importance of building equitable, transparent, and collaborative relationships between funders and grantees to foster sustainable impact. 

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting Power Dynamics: Traditional philanthropy often places funders in positions of power, leading to imbalanced relationships. Trust-based philanthropy advocates for a redistribution of power, encouraging funders to view grantees as partners rather than beneficiaries. 
• Unrestricted Funding: Providing unrestricted, multi-year funding allows organizations the flexibility to allocate resources where they are most needed, promoting innovation and long-term planning. 
• Streamlined Processes: Simplifying application and reporting procedures reduces the administrative burden on grantees, enabling them to focus more on their mission-driven work. 
• Transparent Communication: Open, honest, and frequent communication fosters mutual understanding and trust, leading to more effective collaborations. 
• Listening and Learning: Funders are encouraged to actively listen to the needs and insights of grantees, recognizing their on-the-ground expertise and adapting strategies accordingly.

By adopting trust-based practices, funders can create more equitable partnerships, enhance the effectiveness of their support, and contribute to systemic change