Council-Endorsed D&O Insurance Program
Directors & Officers liability insurance provides financial protection for a foundation and its directors, officers, employees, and volunteers in the event of a lawsuit.
Does your foundation need D&O insurance?
A foundation doesn't have to be in the wrong to be sued. D&O insurance protects foundations by covering costs—defense, damages, or settlements— that result from addressing actual or alleged violations in court. About 90 percent of D&O claims are employment-related issues—wrongful termination, harassment, or discrimination. About 40 percent of these are straight termination cases. The Council on Foundations endorses the D&O liability insurance program provided through Aon’s specialty division, Affinity Nonprofits, and underwritten by Arch Insurance Company. The Council does not believe that D&O insurance is right for every foundation. Rather, we encourage you to decide, in consultation with your foundation's legal counsel, if D&O insurance is the right choice for your foundation's needs.
Who is eligible for the Council-endorsed D&O insurance program?
The Council-endorsed D&O program is available to all grantmaking foundations as a service to the field. Coverage is available in all states. Local Insurance Brokers also can access the Council's D&O program through Affinity Nonprofits.
Is there a discount for Council members?
A premium credit is available to grantmakers with current membership in the Council or in one of the participating regional associations of grantmakers in states where the premium credit is approved. To find out if your regional association participates, check with your regional association, Affinity Nonprofits, or the Council.
How to get started
Download an application and other materials on Affinity Nonprofits D&O webpage or call Jason Tharpe, at 202-429-8561. To obtain the discount, let Aon know that you are a member of either the Council or a participating regional association. If you have questions for the Council about the program, contact legal@cof.org.
