Act boldly. Give wisely.
Powering the promise of philanthropy.

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Who We Are

As strategic philanthropy advisors, we help funders increase their impact. We are passionate about philanthropy’s potential to accelerate change and address social and environmental issues in just and lasting ways. Philanthropy plays an important role in creating the world we want, and The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) works hard to support funders on their unique journeys to transform lives, communities, and so much more.

Who We Serve

We work with new and experienced funders who are eager to think big and make a difference. Our clients include companies, foundations, families, individuals, and funder collaboratives with ambitious philanthropic goals. Through consulting that is grounded in best practice and creative thinking, TPI helps funders of all types be innovative, proactive, and strategic in their efforts to support sustained social impact.

What We Do

We cultivate high-impact philanthropy around the world through consulting, research, program design and management, funder education, thought leadership, and field building. Our work with clients begins with their values, interests, and passions – wherever they are on their philanthropic journey to realize their vision. As thought partners and advisors, we work to create, implement, and evaluate customized philanthropic strategies to address the world’s greatest challenges.

Ideas & Insights

The Future of International Philanthropy Lies in the Power of Our Common Humanity

| Global Philanthropy | No Comments
The last year has seen profound shifts and uncertainty in international development – rising armed conflict, attacks on human rights and civil society, and the disassembling of foreign aid systems.…

Finding Potential Partners to Magnify Your Impact

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When the John Templeton Foundation (JTF) first approached TPI, they were facing a challenge not uncommon to many funders – especially those who have been working in a specific area…

Stronger Boards, Stronger Impact: The Case for Independent Directors

| Strategic Philanthropy | No Comments
Family foundations often begin with a singular vision—a passion passed down through generations, or an individual’s desire to make a lasting difference that extends beyond their life. As these foundations…

Philanthropy’s Role in Supporting Legal Migration Pathways for Refugees

| Global Philanthropy | No Comments
This blog was co-authored by Sasha Chanoff, Founder/CEO of RefugePoint, and Maggi Alexander, TPI Senior Partner and Director of TPI’s Center for Global Philanthropy. Mangok Bol was only ten years…

A Generous Life by TPI’s Founder, Peter Karoff

The posthumous release of A Generous Life: Reflections on Inspired Giving by TPI’s Founder Peter Karoff offers readers a rich and inspiring compilation of a lifetime of reflections, wisdom, and visionary insights into the philanthropic advisory landscape. His words will inspire readers to grow, learn, and strive for greater impact and meaning in their giving.

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“This compendium is a tribute to Peter and his exceptional humanness, and I am struck by how incredibly relevant his writings are for society today.”
—Sara Hamilton, Founder, Family Office Exchange