Richard Branson Announces $105-Million Fund for Eye Disease, Backed by Gates and Others
The investment follows news of major American foundations and drug companies funding research and treatment.
By Julian Wyllie
Contributor
The Museum of Modern Art Lands $40 Million: Gifts Roundup
Plus, San Francisco State University receives $27 million, and a junior college in Texas and an art school in Maine get big gifts.
By Maria Di Mento
Senior Editor
House Republicans Want to Rescind New Tax on Nonprofits: Daily News Roundup
An amendment has been introduced that would kill a new tax on certain fringe benefits that churches, colleges, and other nonprofits provide for employees. Plus, Bloomberg Philanthropies plans to give $50 million to fight the opioid epidemic; Sheryl Sandberg reportedly asked Facebook’s communications staff to do research on George Soros’s financial interests after his criticisms of tech companies; and more news and articles on big donors, ideas, and powerful women in philanthropy.
Ruth Mott Foundation Selects New Chief (Transitions)
Also, the Nord Family Foundation promotes Anthony Richardson to executive director, and BoardSource hires a new head of its programs to improve racial equity and inclusion on nonprofit boards.
By M.J. Prest
Senior Editor, Solutions
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Leader on Funding, Priorities, and Advocacy (Podcast)
The association uses the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act, vast grassroots donor support, and open access to research findings to gain traction for its cause.
Giving Circles Grow in Diversity and Get an Assist From Gates Foundation
Two studies say the programs are reaching new donors and helping a broader array of causes. Meanwhile, the Gates Foundation announced a $250,000 grant to Amplifier, a network of giving circles.
By Julian Wyllie
Contributor
San Francisco Official Wants Zuckerberg Name Removed From Public Hospital: Daily News Roundup
The request was made in light of the controversy over Facebook’s handling of user data and its use of opposition research. Plus, Patagonia gave $10 million it got from GOP tax cuts to environmental groups; the NRA’s income dropped by $55 million last year; a new nonprofit, started by critics of the Trump administration’s policies on student loans, will work with state and local lawmakers to protect student borrowers; the Berkshire Museum got $53 million from the sale of 40 artworks; and more.
Giving Tuesday Appeals Raise an Estimated $400 Million
With about $380 million raised from 4 million donors, the results bode well for year-end fundraising over all and represent $1 billion collected over the event’s seven-year run.
By HEATHER JOSLYN
Contributor
Google Will Award $25 Million for A.I. for Social Good
Any organization can apply for money, as well as coaching and other advice on how to expand projects that harness this fast-growing type of technology.
By NICOLE WALLACE
Features Editor
Nonprofit Investment Returns Average Only 6.7%: Daily News Roundup
A 2009-16 study shows that they underperform even U.S Treasurys. Plus, charities are anxiously anticipating a drop in year-end giving because of the new tax law; a musician has announced a new foundation for prison overhaul; the president of Dillard University is chiding philanthropists for giving less to historically black colleges and universities; Mary’s Place, one of Jeff Bezos’s favorite charities, is launching a campaign to raise $2 million for a new shelter; and much more.