Do you want to make a difference? Great. Please do. But don’t start a nonprofit.

Between the oft-cited “nonprofit starvation cycle” and a movement to debunk the “Overhead Myth” that holds many in philanthropy back from supporting nonprofit operational expenses, it can feel like the state of nonprofit funding today is grim.

We think that powerful examples of best practices can help turn the tide. So let’s talk about what’s going right. Some leading funders are increasing nonprofit capacity and supporting critical operations in key ways. 

What keeps nonprofits from approaching corporate funders for support? Is there a difference in cultivating relationships with corporate funders vs private foundations and individual donors? What can a nonprofit do to break into this consistent yet, often elusive funding stream? 

Note: The following discussion is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice. For specific information about provisions of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 that affect donor-advised funds, consult your attorney or tax advisor.

The December 2006 Question of the Month asked, "Are you aware of the provisions affecting donor-advised funds contained in the Pension Protection Act of 2006?" A little over half—52 percent—of participants said they were. The remaining 48 percent replied that they were not. Here, then, is a brief summary.