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

International Philanthropy at a Crossroads

| Global Philanthropy | No Comments
This blog is co-authored by Ina Breuer, executive director of NEID Global, and cross-posted from Alliance Magazine. Why bold action, strong alliances, and a commitment to our shared humanity must…

How We Meet the Challenge of Our Era

| Global Philanthropy | No Comments
This blog is written by Annie Boyajian, president of Freedom House, and cross-posted from Alliance Magazine. The fight for freedom can’t wait It was a privilege to be a guest…

Applying Power and Equity Practices to Your International Philanthropy: Lessons From What NOT To Do

| Equity | No Comments
This blog is written by Jessie Cronan, co-founder of Daraja Partners, and cross-posted from Alliance Magazine. The workshop, Applying Power and Equity Practices to Your International Philanthropy, facilitated by Daraja Partners…

Shifting Power through Blended Finance: Takeaways from the 2025 Innovations in International Philanthropy Symposium

| Impact Investing | No Comments
This blog is written by Jesse Simmons, managing director of client experience and impact investments at CapShift, and cross-posted from Alliance Magazine. This year’s Innovations in International Philanthropy Symposium carried a…

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