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.
How to Disrupt Online Pipelines to Radicalization and Violence
The March 2019 terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand revealed an essential truth about our modern information age: terrorists and violent extremists exploit digital platforms to radicalize, recruit, and inspire violence. This session will help participants understand the…
Washington Snapshot: CF Leadership Coalition Launch
We’re excited to let you know that our new CF Leadership Coalition: Policy and Communications Add-on is now available. Plus, G20 for Philanthropy Information Series, Budget Reconciliation Outlook, and more.
Global Regional Funder Circles
These peer-learning spaces bring together funders working in specific regions and are designed to be informal conversations for peers to share experiences and learn from one another as legal, regulatory, and security dynamics continue to shift for philanthropy across the globe.
New CEOs Navigating Difference and Division in a Transforming Philanthropic Landscape (CEO Only)
At the same time foundations are managing one of the most disruptive periods in philanthropic history, a new wave of executives has taken the helm at many large foundations. What are their philosophies about engaging difference and what might their approaches show us about opportunities and…
Council on Foundations Celebrates 2025 Award Winners
WASHINGTON – Today, the Council on Foundations announced the winners of the 2025 Council Awards, including two new awards - the Excellence in Community Foundation Leadership Award and Building Together Award. The winners include:Distinguished Service Award: Rip Rapson, Kresge Foundation President…
Washington Snapshot: Global Grantmaking Essentials
Our biannual virtual training on global grantmaking offers a focused dive into cross-border giving regulations, real-world tools for navigating complex systems, and updates on the latest data and research. Plus, the SPONSOR Act, Senate hearing on foreign influence in higher education, and more.
Membership Benefits
Council members—including staff, board members, and volunteers—have access to exclusive member benefits and service including networking, professional development, legal consultation, discounts, and more.
Building Together Award
About the AwardThe Building Together Award grew out of the Council on Foundations’ strategic focus on Building Common Ground. The award:Celebrates work that builds the heart set, mindset, and skill set to connect and collaborate across differences. This may include efforts that foster dialogue,…
Asia-Pacific Funder Circle - April 2026
This peer-learning space brings together funders working across the Asia-Pacific region and is designed to be an informal, peer-led conversation where participants can share experiences and learn from one another as legal, regulatory, and security dynamics continue to shift across the region. ICNL…
Guidance for Funders on the Iran War 2026
As is the case with most military conflicts, humanitarian needs will inevitably escalate in the region. For those interested in providing aid or support to people affected by the war, this page offers legal guidance, background information, and suggested funding avenues.This page will be updated as…
Listening Skills for Chaotic Times
This session offers practical tools and case studies to help funders listen quickly and, effectively, and without burdening grantees in times of upheaval—even when communities are sharing conflicting opinions and input. This is a part of the Building Up to Building Together webinar series. If…
Strategy in the Age of Chaos: Strategic Foresight for Philanthropic Leaders
Times of rapid change demand leaders skilled in both improvisation and imagination. Both of these skills require practice. This session introduces the foundations of strategic foresight and equips participants with practical techniques to expand possibility, challenge assumptions, and explore…
Washington Snapshot: Register for Our Upcoming Webinar on the Basics of Civic Engagement
Philanthropic organizations face heightened attention and expectations. To support Council members, our Legal Resources team is hosting a webinar on what philanthropic organizations need to know to engage confidently and responsibly in civic engagement work. Plus, FOTH26, Council testimony for the…