Public Policy

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.

For over 75 years, the Council on Foundations has worked to support the nation’s community foundations, acting as a voice for them in Washington, D.C. while providing essential policy guidance and resources. Now, through the new CF Leadership Coalition, Policy and Communications Add-On, Council…

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…

The landscape for philanthropy shifted in 2025. How is your organization preparing for what comes next in 2026 and beyond? Join us for Foundations on the Hill on March 16-19 to build the long-term advocacy skills needed to engage policymakers confidently and shape the environment in which…

Earlier this week, Real Clear Politics published an op-ed by Council President and CEO Kathleen Enright responding to recent commentary criticizing the sector. Plus, new amicus brief, Foundations on the Hill 2026, and more.

Foundations on the Hill 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the philanthropic sector. Plus, new legislation targeting nonprofits, federal government funding, and more.

The Public Policy Leadership Cohort is an immersive, peer-led learning experience designed for funders ready to move from essential knowledge to strategy. Hosted by the Council on Foundations with support from the Thornburg Foundation, this monthly cohort (May–November) will explore core pillars in…

The last Washington Snapshot of the year. Looking back on 2025, state legislation taking effect in 2026, and more.

Philanthropic organizations face heightened attention and expectations. To support Council members, our Legal Resources team hosted a webinar on what philanthropic organizations need to know to engage confidently and responsibly in civic engagement work.This session covered what organizations can…

Workshop HoursTuesday, August 25: 1-5 p.m. ETThursday, August 27: 1-5 p.m. ETGovernment policies and programs affect almost every aspect of our lives, from housing, healthcare and the environment to education, transportation, and safety.  For foundations striving to create equitable,…

On September 25, President Trump issued a memorandum addressing domestic terrorism and organized political violence. Find our summary of the provisions in the memo below. Section 1. Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence. The recent influx in political violence is not a series of…

This week, Representatives Blake Moore (R-UT) and Danny Davis (D-IL) announced the launch of the bipartisan Congressional Philanthropy Caucus. Plus, IRS guidance on Trump Accounts, new AAER case, tax conformity in the states, and more.

On November 12, the House passed a continuing resolution and minibus package of appropriations bills, marking the end to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Plus, Building Together 2026, support for nonprofits impacted by changes in federal grants, and more.

The federal government has been shut down since October 1. The Senate has remained in Washington, D.C. throughout the shutdown, holding over a dozen unsuccessful votes to pass a continuing resolution. Plus, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Senate Judiciary updates, National Religious Broadcasters…

The Council’s Public Policy Action Network is a members-only group of foundation leaders committing their voices, experiences, and networks to engage and educate federal elected officials to foster a policy environment in which philanthropy can thrive. Policymakers depend on the voices and…

The Council’s Public Policy Action Network is a members-only group of foundation leaders committing their voices, experiences, and networks to engage and educate federal elected officials to foster a policy environment in which philanthropy can thrive. Policymakers depend on the voices and…