Private Foundations

Private foundations make grants based on charitable endowments. The endowment funds come from one or a small handful of sources -- an individual, a family or a corporation. Because of their endowments, they are focused primarily on grantmaking and generally do not raise funds or seek public financial support the way public charities (like community foundations) must.

“Private foundation” is the umbrella term that includes corporate, independent, family, and operating foundations.  As of 2011, there were 73,764 private foundations in the United States (Foundation Center, 2011).  

In 2011, private foundations held more than $604 billion in assets and gave away more than $45 billion (Foundation Center, 2011).  

Below is everything on our site for private foundations. Due to the large number of resources on our website, we highly recommend you use the site navigation or the search feature to find what you are looking for.

Puppy "Paws"

We are partnering with local rescue Motley Zoo Animal Rescue to bring loveable, huggable (and adoptable!) puppies to Building Together 2026. Stop by for a snuggle!

Break

Take this opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, visit our partner tables, browse our bookstore, enjoy a snack, or recharge in our Brain Break room.

Plenary Session: Meeting Conflict with Courage and Hope

Division continues to shape our politics, our communities, and even our sense of one another. In this plenary we’ll take a clear-eyed look at the stark challenges of our time—including the growing realities of political violence and extremism. Together, we’ll consider what it means to live in a…

Breakfast Meetup: 2026 Working Group

Working Group members are invited to enjoy time together over breakfast.

Breakfast Meetup: 2026 Host Committee

Host Committee members are invited to enjoy time together over breakfast.

Nature Wellness Walk

Start your day on the right foot and join us for a morning walk designed to help you connect with nature. Hosted by Trust for Public Land.

Registration Open

Registration Open

Registration Open

Registration Open

Breakfast

Start your morning with breakfast and connect with fellow attendees before the day begins.

Opening Night Reception and Concert

Kick off Building Together with a reception and concert, sponsored by the Gates Foundation. This one-night-only experience features RUB, a six-piece band bringing feel-good energy to Seattle’s music scene, along with KEXP’s own DJ Morgan.The evening is curated in partnership with iconic…

Bridging Differences Leadership Cohort Welcome Lounge

Bridging Differences Leadership Cohort members (2026) and alumni (2023, 2024, 2025) are invited to connect and relax in a casual setting. Stop by to say hello to Council staff and fellow cohort members throughout the afternoon. We will host a short program around 3:15 p.m. Light refreshments will…

Welcome to Seattle: Seattle Waterfront (Self‑Guided Outing)

Get your steps in with a walking tour of the Seattle Waterfront, taking in its signature sights at your own pace. Wander the piers, browse local shops, and stop at iconic “must‑dos” like Pike Place Market with its lively stalls and famous fish throwers. Continue along the waterfront to explore…

Welcome to Seattle: Seattle Center (Self‑Guided Outing)

Make your way to Seattle Center, starting with a 1-mile walk or a quick ride on the historic Seattle Monorail from downtown. Once on campus, explore iconic attractions at your own pace, including MoPOP, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Space Needle. While you’re there, don’t miss the Gates…

May the 4th Build Community: Career Pathways Alumni Outing

Career Pathways alumni are invited to come together to connect, build community, and gather The Force to prepare for Building Together 2026. We will build relationships, grab a meal, and explore a galaxy far, far, away... from the hotel, and step into local, rejuvenating outdoor spaces. Join us and…
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