2015 NCFP Trends in Family Philanthropy: Results of the First National Benchmark Survey of Family Foundations
This report, conducted by the Urban Institute in partnership with the National Center for Family Philanthropy, shares results and key findings from the first national benchmark survey of family foundations.
The field of family philanthropy is growing quickly. Between 2002 and 2013, the number of family foundations grew by 44 percent—increasing roughly from 29,400 to 42,300. During this time, total giving by family foundations almost doubled—from $12.4 billion to $23.9 billion. These trends reflect the overall creation of family wealth in the United States as well as the growing sense that through philanthropy individuals can have a positive effect on serious issues here and abroad. Entrepreneurs in the 21st century are amassing greater wealth earlier in their lifetimes than did other generations of entrepreneurs. At the same time, they are seeking added meaning outside of (and, in some cases, through) their businesses. Although there are many other types of charitable vehicles, some discussed in this report, family foundations arguably offer donors more control, flexibility, and visibility than do other vehicles. Involving family members in grantmaking through family foundations is valued as a way to educate the family members about philanthropy and to share values from generation to generation. This report, conducted by the Urban Institute in partnership with the National Center for Family Philanthropy, shares results and key findings from the first national benchmark survey of family foundations.