Foundations for the Future: Emerging trends in foundation philanthropy

This paper, presented at the Forum on Philanthropy, Public Policy, and the Economy, analyzes the unprecedented period of rapid external changes impacting foundations at the turn of the 21st century. It outlines societal trends redefining the philanthropic landscape and examines their effects on foundation programs and operations. The report concludes by discussing strategies for foundations to reinvent themselves, enabling them to capitalize on the unique opportunities presented by this evolving environment, rather than being solely reactive to legislative or internal changes.