People & Fundraising Tools — September 2026
September 2026 roundup of leadership moves and fundraising tools from across the philanthropic sector.
UPCOMING WORKSHOP
Registration is now open for What’s Next in Philanthropy: Creating Your 2027 National Fundraising Strategy, our forward-looking workshop on November 12, and we want you in the room (or on the call).
The funding landscape is shifting faster than most fundraising plans can keep up with. Foundation leadership is turning over, post-election priorities are taking shape, and forces like AI, donor-advised funds, and equity-centered grantmaking are changing how and where dollars flow. Most organizations are still fundraising against last year's map. This workshop hands you a new one.
Rather than reviewing how funders have given in the past, we focus on where they're headed, and what that means for your strategy over the next two years. You'll walk away with a future-focused look at 100+ funders investing meaningful dollars in Minnesota nonprofits, each profiled around how their priorities are changing and what to expect in 2027. And you'll hear from expert guest speakers on the trends reshaping the sector.
Every registration includes the full workshop book, downloadable planning tools, a recording of the session, and a two-week trial of the Access Philanthropy database.
Join us in person or online on November 12.
Read on for new funding opportunities, people on the move, and the latest from across the sector.
FEATURED RESOURCE
New Report: Minnesota Neighboring States Funders
Minnesota nonprofits often overlook funders just across the state line, and that's a missed opportunity. Our new report identifies 28 of the strongest prospects in North Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and South Dakota for Minnesota organizations, from major corporate givers like American Family, Principal, Hy-Vee, and Casey's to regional foundations and cooperatives.
For each funder, you'll find the Minnesota opportunity, recent giving activity, the best contact, and, most importantly, how to approach them.
PEOPLE IN PHILANTHROPY
Here's a look at the latest appointments, promotions, transitions, and fond farewells shaping foundations and nonprofits across Minnesota and beyond.
Emily Orr Named Executive Director of Eden Prairie Community Foundation
Emily Orr has stepped into the executive director role at the Eden Prairie Community Foundation. Read More...Pleasant Radford Jr. Named Executive Director of Medica Foundation
Pleasant Radford Jr. has been named executive director of the Medica Foundation. Read More...Jerome Foundation Adds a New Program Strategist
The Jerome Foundation has expanded its team with a new Program Strategist. Read More...Margaret Huang Named President and CEO of NEO Philanthropy
Margaret Huang has been named the new president and CEO of NEO Philanthropy. Read More...Rachel Flynn Named Managing Director at the Skoll Foundation
Rachel Flynn has stepped into the role of Managing Director at the Skoll Foundation. Read More...
FUNDRAISING TOOLBOX
A Strategic Approach to DAFs
Too many organizations treat donor-advised funds as just another way to process a gift, rather than building them into their fundraising strategy. This piece makes the case for a smarter approach, and points out that many of your DAF donors may already be in your database. Learn More
Building Strong Relationships with DAF Donors
A companion read from the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation offering three ways nonprofits can strengthen connections with donor-advised fund holders and support long-term engagement. Learn More
Get Feedback on Your Proposals
Unfunded List, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) whose mission is to educate the public about philanthropy. Twice a year, they provide free feedback on grant proposals, a rare chance for an outside read before you submit. Learn More
A One-Pager on Creating a Theory of Change
Kevin L. Brown argues that classic logic models fall flat and most theories of change are too complex, all arrows, assumptions, and academia, leaving funders confused. His one-page cheat sheet aims to fix that. Learn More
What Exactly Is Grants Management?
A helpful LinkedIn discussion breaking down what grants management really involves, useful for anyone new to the role or building out the function. Learn More
A Board's Guide to Fiscal Sponsorship
A clear guide from Propel Nonprofits and Springboard for the Arts, helpful for any board weighing fiscal sponsorship, whether as sponsor or sponsored organization. Learn More
Search Medical Studies
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation maintains the Health and Medical Care Archive, a research resource with 327 studies and nearly 7,900 publications, useful for health-focused organizations building a case for support. Learn More
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