Is this program open to anyone? Do I have to be currently in the position of Executive Director?

Many funders today have a great capacity to give, but not a lot of formal structure. We aren’t worried about your title - maybe you are a longtime trusted associate, family office executive, or independent consultant. This program is for all individuals who are in a position to facilitate significant funding for social impact.

What are the deadlines for participation?

• Expressions of Interest Due: January 31, 2025 for Spring and July 31, 2025 for Fall 2025

• First session: March 2025 (Spring) and September 2025 (Fall)

When does the program start?

Our Spring 2025 cohort will begin in early March and end in early June, and our fall 2025 cohort will begin in early September and end in early December.

What is the expected time commitment?

The EDI will convene weekly on Tuesdays at 3pm ET/Noon PT for 90 minutes to cover one key topic, and meet in person for 2.5 days at the end. In order to get the most value from the experience, participants will need to commit to prioritizing the virtual sessions and attending the final convening in person, though the virtual sessions will be recorded as we understand things happen. There is no expected time commitment outside of our sessions together, though we are adding an optional “discussion session” for cohort participants who wish to engage in further dialogue.

What if I can’t make every session?

We understand that you are a busy professional and sometimes, especially working with living donors, things come up and missing a session will be unavoidable. We will ask you to commit to being at the majority of sessions and the in-person convening at the conclusion of the course. You will be able to review the Zoom recording of any virtual session you miss.

Why do I need to submit an Expression of Interest? Can’t I just register?

We want to make sure the program is a good fit for you and will deliver significant value that you can put into practice immediately. Additionally, we are curating a cohort of individuals that will help each other through their professional journeys and seek a diverse mix of participants.

How much does the program cost?

Institute for Private Philanthropy is grateful for the partnership and sponsorship of an anonymous donor in creating and launching this pilot program. Thanks to this generosity, the fee payable by each participant in 2024 is $3,000. We anticipate tuition will increase in 2025.

Each cohort member is also responsible for paying for and making their own travel and lodging arrangements for the in-person convening, though we will secure a block of hotel rooms.

Are the tuition and travel expenses tax deductible?

Generally speaking, professional development and education for foundation staff is a qualifying expense that contributes to the 5% minimum distribution requirement for a private foundation, so it is paid for with post-tax dollars (the donor received a deduction when the funds were put into the foundation). If you are not an employee of a private foundation or work through a donor-advised fund or LLC, consult with your tax professionals.