Funding the Future: Why Philanthropy Needs a Venture Mindset - GeeksTap Tech Networking & Learning

​GeeksTap with Janak Padhiar: Funding the Future - Why Philanthropy Needs a Venture Mindset

​What if the world’s biggest problems were funded the same way we fund the world’s most ambitious startups?

​A new model of philanthropy is emerging - one that thinks in bold theses, long-term bets, and breakthrough outcomes instead of fragmented donations. From AI and deep tech to energy, education, and workforce transformation, venture-style philanthropy is quietly becoming a powerful force behind the future of innovation.

​In this GeeksTap session, Janak Padhiar, from Renaissance Philanthropy explores why more philanthropists are adopting a VC mindset, funding “big if true” ideas, and backing the kinds of ambitious projects traditional systems often ignore.

​​​​​​​​​About GeeksTap

​GeeksTap is a weekly virtual gathering for founders, investors, and startup operators from around the world.

​Each session brings together people who are actively building companies, backing them with capital, or helping scale them. The goal is simple: create a space where startup practitioners can share real lessons, ask thoughtful questions, and meet others working through similar challenges.

​This is a conversation, not a webinar.

​​​​​​​​​Who attends GeeksTap

​Builders: startup founders and early-stage teams
Backers: angels, VCs, and active investors
Operators: people helping build and scale startups

​If one of those describe you, by all means join us!

​If one of those doesn't describe you, by all means don't!

​​​​​​​​​What Happens on a GeeksTap session

​Guest Speaker Conversation
Each week we host a founder, investor, or operator who shares candid insights from their work.

​Tap Rooms (Small Group Networking)
After the discussion, participants rotate through three rounds of small breakout rooms (4-6 people) to exchange ideas and meet others in the ecosystem.