The Science Philanthropy Alliance’s mission is to advance scientific discovery through visionary philanthropy. We provide advising services and learning opportunities to help philanthropists make informed, effective, and satisfying investments in basic science. The Alliance also works to make philanthropic support more impactful and effective by helping both funders and researchers understand the broader emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities for philanthropy to support science. We do not make grants, match funders and researchers together, or accept proposals; however, our close engagement with funders enables us to share general resources with research institution stakeholders interested in learning more about working with philanthropic organizations. For more information, visit the resources page from our virtual 2023 Research Institutions Meeting. Other ways research institutions can engage with us include:
- Referring philanthropists to work with our experienced advisors. Many of the organizations we work with are connections made through referrals from research
institution stakeholders. - Following our website and social media for announcements and joining our newsletter to stay aware of opportunities and access resources. We frequently share information about our members’ activities.
- Expanding the role of science philanthropy at your institution. Philanthropy is a key area of support but is often left out of the conversation, and we encourage
research and development teams to identify and highlight the ways philanthropy is already making a difference and where it has not yet reached. - Amplifying your philanthropy stories in collaboration with the foundations that support you. We are always happy to hear news about our member foundations.
- Sharing your thoughts, ideas, and questions with us at researchinstitutions@sciphil.org. Knowing what is on your mind helps us shape the agenda for our Research Institutions Meeting and develop other resources.
Although research institutions are welcome to reach out to us about their experience with philanthropy, it is not our approach to pitch specific projects or institutions to funders. On limited occasions we may directly solicit a white paper from a project or initiative; this would be based on our familiarity with our members’ interests or a direct member request.