What is Philanthropy Northwest?
Philanthropy Northwest (PNW) is a regional association of foundations, corporate giving programs, and individual donors in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. It serves Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.
Here’s a simpler breakdown of what PNW does:
- Helps philanthropy-type organizations (those that give grants, support nonprofits) learn best practices, connect with each other, and act together.
- Focuses strongly on equity and racial justice — shifting resources and power so under-invested communities get more support.
- Provides consulting, training, policy work, and research to strengthen philanthropic impact.
Why it matters
Many organizations aim to do “good work,” but without strong networks, tools, or equity-centered thinking, impact can be limited. Philanthropy Northwest steps in to help funders become more effective, less siloed, and more inclusive. This makes it an important player in the nonprofit/social-impact world of the Northwest region.
Why you might care (and what your “pain points” are)
If you’re involved in nonprofit work, grant-making, community development, or you simply want to understand how philanthropy works in the Northwest, this matters. Here are common pain points and how PNW can help.
“We don’t know how to grant in a way that’s equitable”
Many foundations say: “We want to help underserved communities, but we’re not sure how.”
PNW addresses this by offering resources and tools around equity, strategy, and best practices.
“We’re isolated — we don’t know other funders doing similar things”
Working in isolation can slow progress. PNW offers peer networks, learning cohorts and convenings so funders learn from each other.
“Policy and external environment are shifting — we’re unsure how to respond”
The philanthropic sector is influenced by public policy, regulations, social justice trends. PNW engages in policy and advocacy so members can stay current.
“We need strategy, but don’t know where to start”
Foundations often need help with strategy development, staff/board alignment, implementing new approaches. PNW and its consulting arm (The Giving Practice) offer strategy services.
How Philanthropy Northwest works – Key Functions and Services
1. Learning Networks & Peer Learning
PNW brings members together in peer networks: groups of people doing similar work (foundation types, program areas, social identities) so they learn together.
Example: A cohort of foundation CEOs learning how to embed racial equity in their organizations.
2. Consulting & Strategy Services
Through The Giving Practice, PNW offers tailored strategy and facilitation to help organizations move from talking to action.
Example: Facilitating stakeholder engagement to build a foundation’s new vision & values.
3. Resources & Research
PNW produces case studies, templates, policy briefs for funders.
Example: The “Equity Journey Tracker Template” helps organizations reflect and track their progress.
4. Policy & Advocacy
PNW works on issues like census participation, donor-advised fund transparency, nonprofit-government partnerships.
Example: A policy statement urging nonprofits to be protected in law when practicing race-conscious giving.
5. Membership & Networking
Organizations or individuals can become members. Benefits include access to peer networks, discounted consulting, member-only events.
Example: Joining gives you one free hour of consulting per year.
Real-World Examples
- A community foundation in Montana joined PNW’s peer network, used the Equity Journey Tracker, and shifted its grantmaking to prioritize Indigenous-led community work.
- The Giving Practice worked with a foundation to redesign its grant strategy: they did research, convened stakeholders, built a roadmap and began implementation.
- PNW advocated for inclusive census counting in the Northwest region, recognizing that undercounted communities lose funding and representation.
Key Statistics & Facts You Should Know
- Founded in 1976 (originally as the Pacific Northwest Grantmakers Forum).
- Serves six states: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming.
- According to a brochure: “In 2021, foundation funding distributed to Black populations was 0.4%” in the region, “0.8% to Latinx populations,” etc.
- Latest nonprofit profile: Revenue ~$4.23 M and Expenses ~$5.69 M for fiscal year 2023.
Why This Matters for Nonprofits, Funders & Stakeholders
For Nonprofits
Understanding how funders like PNW operate helps nonprofits:
- Aligning with funder priorities (equity, power-shifting) increases chances of success.
- Knowing about PNW’s shape of funding helps in strategic planning and partnership.
For Funders
If you’re a funder (foundation, donor, giving program):
- Joining PNW offers a way to learn how to grant smarter.
- Helps you connect and avoid reinventing the wheel.
- Helps you respond to equity pressures and hold yourself accountable.
For the Broader Community
Stronger philanthropy leads to better results for communities: more inclusive, equitable funding means previously overlooked communities gain voice and resources.
How to Get Started with Philanthropy Northwest
- Visit their website and review membership info.
- Assess your organization’s readiness: What is your current approach to equity and inclusion? What peer networks would help you?
- Explore their “Resources” section and download tools such as the “Equity Journey Tracker.”
- Attend one of their events or webinars (many are virtual).
- Define your goals: e.g., “In 12 months we will embed equity in our grant-making process” and use PNW’s services as a support.
FAQ Section
What kinds of organizations can join Philanthropy Northwest?
Membership is open to institutional, individual and collective grantmakers and donors who commit to shifting outcomes for under-invested communities in the Northwest region.
Does Philanthropy Northwest give grants directly?
PNW is primarily a network, learning and consulting organization for funders. It does not primarily function as a grant-maker to nonprofits like many foundations do.
How much does membership cost?
The website doesn’t publicly list fixed rates for all types; interested organizations should contact PNW directly.
Is Philanthropy Northwest credible?
Yes. It has nearly 50 years of experience (founded 1976) and clear mission, values around equity, integrity, and place.
Plus, its financial and organizational data is publicly available (e.g., via ProPublica).
What does “equity-centered philanthropy” mean in this context?
It means shifting from “we know what’s best” to “we partner with communities to define their future,” and actively working to remove barriers, redistribute power and support self-determination.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a way to deepen your philanthropic impact, learn from peers, build equitable practices and engage wisely with communities — then exploring Philanthropy Northwest is a smart step. The region’s philanthropic landscape is changing, and being part of a network that supports this change helps you stay relevant, responsible and effective.
