Trust-Based Philanthropy: Power, Resources, and Grassroots Impact
Traditional philanthropy often reinforces distance and distrust — with burdensome reporting, rigid metrics, and top-down decision-making. Trust-based philanthropy seeks to flip this script by centering relationships, shifting power, and resourcing communities more equitably. But what does this look like in practice, particularly for southern civil society organizations (CSOs), intermediaries, and grassroots groups?
This session will explore how funders, regranting organizations, and community leaders are experimenting with trust-based giving, alternative fundraising models, and systems-strengthening approaches that prioritize impact over bureaucracy.
What to Expect
Rethink relationships – Examine how trust between funders, intermediaries, and CSOs can drive stronger outcomes.
Explore regranting models – Discuss how intermediaries can channel resources closer to communities.
Highlight alternative fundraising – Consider new strategies for mobilizing resources beyond traditional philanthropy.
Reframe measurement – Debate how to balance accountability with trust in evaluating impact.
Speakers
Julia Holmertz — COO of Unlocking Communities, supporting community-driven solutions to improve livelihoods and sustainability.
Satyam Vyas — Founder & CEO of Climate Asia and Arthan, advancing climate resilience, gender equity, and capacity building across South and Southeast Asia.
Wambui Karanja — Founder of TuiFUND, connecting global funders with grassroots organizations in Kenya and Rwanda to strengthen trust-based philanthropy.
Why Join?
Gain practical insights into trust-based giving and grassroots resource mobilization.
Learn from southern CSOs and intermediaries advancing more equitable funding flows.
Share your own challenges and lessons in building trust across the philanthropy ecosystem.
Walk away with tools and inspiration to embed trust and equity into your funding practice.
Who Should Attend?
Funders and philanthropists interested in trust-based approaches.
Intermediaries and regranting organizations strengthening grassroots impact.
Southern CSOs and grassroots leaders navigating funding ecosystems.
Anyone committed to shifting power and building equity in philanthropy.