Federal policy changes have been swift and extensive, with recent executive orders on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and federal funding creating new complexities for philanthropy and nonprofits.
In the midst of the chaos, we are acutely aware that a major priority of the new administration will be the renewal of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2025, which can either be to the benefit of the charitable sector, or at its expense (or both). Philanthropy Colorado is committed to equipping Colorado’s philanthropic sector with the knowledge, resources, and advocacy opportunities needed to navigate this landscape effectively.
What‘s at Stake for Colorado Grantmakers
The Administration’s recent actions signal a dramatically changing federal approach to funding priorities, oversight, and nonprofit engagement. While some policies remain in legal limbo, the heightened scrutiny on DEI efforts and government-funded programs raises questions about future grantmaking strategies, nonprofit sustainability and the broader role of philanthropy.
Colorado’s grantmakers are uniquely positioned to anticipate and respond to these changes in ways that safeguard long-term impact – and we are listening. Member CEOs have shared their biggest challenges, including:
- Separating what’s important from all the noise
- Responding to the needs and expectations of grantees
- Uncertainly over DEI implications for foundation and grantee communications and work
- Maintaining organizational capacity and morale
How We’re Supporting Our Members
Here are steps Philanthropy Colorado is taking to help our network stay informed and proactive:
✅ Sharing Updates
United Philanthropy Forum – Executive Actions Impact the Philanthropic & Nonprofit Sectors
National Council of Nonprofits - Follow Executive Orders
Colorado Nonprofit Association - Resources and Response to Federal Executive Orders
Colorado Nonprofit Association - Tell Us How Your Nonprofit has been Impacted
Philanthropy Colorado – CEO Listserv, contact Director of Advocacy Jan Brennan
✅ Advocating for Colorado’s Philanthropic Sector
In the last weeks, Philanthropy Colorado leadership has met with Senator Hickenlooper’s staff, Attorney General Phil Weiser and Deputy Kurt Morrison, our partners with the Colorado Nonprofit Association, Community Resource Center and others, as well as many of our members. We convey a forceful, consistent message on the importance of Colorado’s philanthropic and nonprofit sector and build the national and state relationships that provide influence on policymaking.
✅ Professional Development Opportunities
Philanthropy Colorado will continue to offer both topical and skills learning programs that our members can apply to meet the current challenges. These include:
- What We Heard on the Hill: A Special Member Briefing for Philanthropy Colorado
Tues., March 4 | 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Virtual - Budget Advocacy Series Part 1: Understanding the Colorado State Budget
Wed., April 2 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Virtual - Budget Advocacy Series Part 2: Understanding the State Budget Process
Tues., May 6 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | Virtual - Budget Advocacy Series Part 3: Hands on Budget Advocacy Training Workshop
Tues., June3 at 9:00-11:30am | In-Person Denver - Foundation Engagement with Litigation
August (TBD) | Virtual
Philanthropy Colorado is considering other areas of support identified by Colorado foundation CEO’s, including:
- Legal and Compliance Guidance
- Peer Learning and Case Studies
- Messaging and Communications Support
- Policy and Advocacy Strategy Sessions
✅ Peer Learning & Strategy Discussions
We will continue hosting Peer Network discussions and CEO Check-ins, creating space to share responses, coordinate efforts, and explore ways philanthropy can support the nonprofit sector through these uncertainties.
✅ Engagement at the National Level
Now more than ever, philanthropy’s voice matters in shaping policy. Colorado funders will participate in Foundations on the Hill (Feb. 23-26, 2025) to engage with policymakers and reinforce the critical role of philanthropy in strengthening communities.
Philanthropy Colorado actively represents our state philanthropic interests in national policy discussions, from testimony and comments on DAF regulations, to support for a universal charitable deduction and inclusion of the foundation and nonprofit communities in emergency relief efforts.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will likely bring additional shifts in federal policies affecting philanthropy and nonprofits. Philanthropy Colorado will continue to monitor developments, convene experts, and provide updates to ensure our members remain informed and prepared.
We know that Colorado’s philanthropic sector thrives on collaboration, leadership, and shared learning. Please reach out if you have questions, insights, or suggestions for how we can best support your work. Together, we can navigate this changing landscape and ensure philanthropy continues to be a force for progress in our communities.