Not a Side Issue: Funder Dialogue on Strengthening LGBTIQ+ Inclusion
About the session
This session brings together funders to explore what’s working, where the barriers are, and how LGBTIQ+ inclusion can be more deliberately integrated into philanthropic portfolios while still aligned to existing priorities. Many funders already support work that meaningfully benefits LGBTIQ+ communities across a wide range of portfolios. yet these connections are often implicit rather than intentionally designed.
At the same time, LGBTIQ+-serving organizations remain significantly underfunded relative to their contribution to broader development and social outcomes. In a context of tightening resources and increasing pressure on, many are navigating growing constraints, with some programs scaling back or closing. This creates both a challenge and a clear opportunity: to better recognize where this work exists within portfolios, and to strengthen how it is supported going forward.
Grounded in real-world experience, the conversation will focus on how funding LGBTIQ+ outcomes contributes to wider programmatic goals, and what it takes to more intentionally align, support, and sustain that work in practice.
What to expect
A facilitated, peer-to-peer dialogue focused on substance over surface. No panels, no generic framing. Participants will share experiences, reflect on current practices, and explore practical pathways for integrating LGBTIQ+ inclusive approaches within their portfolios, while remaining aligned with institutional mandates and constraints.
Who this is for
This session is for philanthropic funders, bilateral and multilateral donors. You should join if:
Are already funding LGBTIQ+ inclusion and want to deepen or share your approach with others
See potential connections to your work but aren’t sure how to act on them
Have never considered this before
What you will get out of it
A clearer understanding of how existing portfolios already intersect with LGBTIQ+ outcomes
Practical ideas for more intentionally integrating LGBTIQ+-inclusive approaches
Insights from peer funders navigating similar questions and constraints
Opportunities to strengthen alignment and support for organizations working in this space
Hosted by
Sidebar, in collaboration with a global community of LGBTIQ+ practitioners, convened by Tyler Nelson
Location & access
Accessibility matters deeply to us, and we do our best to choose spaces that reflect that. That said, some of our Oxford venues are in historic buildings without lifts. This room is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges, or anyone needing step-free access.