Transformational Philanthropy: Unlocking Leverage Throughout Private-Public Partnerships to Drive Social Impact

Nonprofit executives are constantly faced with the pressure of raising philanthropic dollars to support ongoing operations and rendering critical services in high-needs communities. Rather than focusing on doing the work, leaders are required to raise money to do the work; meanwhile, philanthropic organizations are solicited on a regular basis to provide ongoing support. In order to address this need, Equitable Facilities Fund has pioneered a high-octane “leveraged philanthropy” model that combines both philanthropic contributions and low-cost market capital to invest in high-performing charter schools. These investments are recycled as repayments are made, creating an ongoing, sustainable resource to impact future generations. While specific to the education sector in EFF’s case, this model has broad applicability, the potential to transform giving, and to deepen social impact.