Informed by CEP’s decades of research on the drivers of effective grantmaking and funder-grantee dynamics, this Learning Cohort will help you lead your organization in implementing trust-based philanthropy practices. Connect with a supportive group of peer leaders while you deepen your knowledge of trust-based philanthropy principles, troubleshoot barriers, set and achieve goals, and create change at your foundation.

This peer-leader learning cohort will include seven virtual sessions between May and November 2023. Sessions will include data-backed practices, funder examples, guest speakers, and structured time for participants to set goals, discuss implementation challenges, and receive peer support.

Engage with a group of supportive peer leaders

Implementing ideals of trust-based philanthropy in your grantmaking can be difficult. Change can be easier when done with a supportive group of peer leaders tackling similar challenges. CEP’s learning cohorts emphasize peer-to-peer learning and connection. In these virtual sessions you will have the opportunity to engage with small groups of peer leaders to foster deep connections and learn from each other’s challenges and successes. Participants will be encouraged to set concrete goals for their foundation, and to support and hold each other accountable in pursuit of these goals over the 7-month program. Participants will also be assigned a peer partner for the duration of the cohort, who will serve as a resource and confidant outside of scheduled sessions.

Learn from CEP’s deep roots and practical know-how

The Center for Effective Philanthropy has been a driving force in the movement towards more trust-based, mutual, and transparent practices in grantmaking for over two decades. CEP’s research has resoundingly shown that funders who prioritize transparent and responsive relationships with grantees, and who operationalize trust through their grantmaking structures and approaches, receive higher ratings from grantees regarding their perceptions of a funder’s impact on organizations — and the issues and communities grantees and funders seek to help. Every day, CEP staff work to raise up the voices of grantees and to encourage funders to adopt data-backed philosophies and practices of trust-based philanthropy. Learn more about CEP’s deep roots in trust-based philanthropy.

Session Dates and Content

This Learning Cohort will begin in May 2023 with two half-days of immersive sessions to ground participants in the principles of Trust-Based Philanthropy, CEP research, and to get to know your peer participants. Subsequent sessions will take place in July, September, and November of 2023.

The utility and success of the learning cohort will depend on meaningful participation from each member. So that we can foster a strong group, have fruitful conversations, and best support members in their work, we ask that each participant join with the intention of attending each of the seven planned sessions.

About CEP Learning Communities

Through learning cohorts, CEP helps foundations and foundation staff deepen their knowledge, improve their practice, and ultimately strengthen their personal and organizational impact.

Contact CEP to learn more