Membership Types
Community Foundations
Community Foundations seek support from the public and administer funds from various donors in a defined geographic area, typically no larger than a state.
Private Grantmakers
Private Grantmakers include private, independent, and family foundations, generally founded by an individual, family, or group of individuals.
Corporate Grantmakers
Corporate Grantmakers include corporate foundations and corporate giving programs that are funded by companies as separate legal entities.
Grantmaking Public Charities
Public charities are grantmaking organizations that raise and administer funds from various individual and organizational donors.
Non-US & Tribal Grantmaker
Foundations that are outside of the US. Tribal Grantmakers use grants to support native communities in the US and globally.
Non-Grantmakers
Non-grantmakers can join as associate members. This includes for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, and sole-practitioners that provide services to support the philanthropic sector.
How Council Members Drive the Momentum Forward
Learn how our membership continues to strengthen the collective voice and impact of the philanthropic sector.
Why Join the Council on Foundations?
We are charting a course for the field where funders display high integrity, earn and maintain the public's trust, and serve as excellent stewards of philanthropic resources. We look forward to having you join us!
For more information about Council on Foundations membership, contact a member of our team at membership@cof.org or via phone at 202-991-2225 or 800-673-9036 for those outside the United States.
What Our Members Say
The Council is an invaluable strategic partner for foundations. From creating intentional learning and relationship-building experiences to their approach to advocating for the interests of the philanthropic sector, the Council equips its members with the tools, information, and support to elevate the impact of the community foundation in their communities to decision-makers.
Naomi Amaha
Director of Policy and Government Affairs
The Denver Foundation
We have found the Council to be a wonderful resource, especially in this political moment.
Monica Lewis
Chief Operating Officer and Counsel
Moore Philanthropy
The Council shares an incredible amount of relevant content in a highly digestible way, keeping me informed so I can excel in my work. Attending the Council’s topical Peer Group conversations provides me with access to a supportive national network for both real-time problem solving and longer-term strategic thinking, while its conferences share highly relevant resources and experiences that ultimately help improve how my team and I do our work.
Jason Weiner
Philanthropic Advisor
The Cleveland Foundation
I can count on the Council to keep me posted on developments that we absolutely must understand to operate within the bounds of increasingly restrictive and complex regulations.
John Hecklinger
President and CEO
Global Fund for Children
The Council provides the resources and channels to stay connected and aligned and develop agendas to advance our field together.
Kristi Knous
President
Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines
As the primary voice for foundations, the Council is well-positioned to effectively advocate for the sector and advance our ability to serve communities.
Nick Deychakiwsky
Senior Program Officer
Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
Ready to join the Council?
The Council on Foundations fosters an environment where philanthropy can thrive and cultivates a community of diverse and skilled philanthropic professionals and organizations who lead with integrity, serve as ethical stewards, and advocate for progress.