On July 30, VentureWell hosted The Philanthropy Pivot: Unlocking Foundation Partnerships for Your University, part of the VentureWell Innovation in Action (VIA) Learning Series.
The webinar focused on strengthening collaborations between higher education institutions and philanthropic funders. The conversation featured insights from Ify Aduba, executive director of the Entrepreneurship Funders Network; Kory Murphy, program officer at The Lemelson Foundation; and David Wolf, Ph.D., associate vice president for major gifts at Tulane University. The session was moderated by Michael Brizek, Ph.D., PMP, director of VentureWell’s Higher Education Ecosystems programming.
The panel explored how higher education institutions can rethink their approach to foundation partnerships—especially in the face of shifting funding priorities, increased competition for funding, and calls for greater alignment between mission and money.
Whether you attended live or plan to catch the recording, here are five key takeaways that stood out from the conversation.
Takeaway 1: Funders Prioritize Impact, Not Just Activity
Funders want to know what changed—not just what you did. Metrics like attendance and satisfaction are surface-level. What matters is whether your program delivers tangible benefits to people and communities.
“It’s not about how many people came or said they felt good. Did someone get healthier? Safer? More economically secure?” — Kory Murphy, program officer, The Lemelson Foundation
Why it matters:
In a high-stakes funding landscape, institutions must demonstrate real-world, system-level outcomes. Grantmakers are investing in transformation—not transactions.
Takeaway 2: Relationships Drive Funding Decisions
Strong partnerships don’t start with a cold pitch. They start with authentic, long-term relationship-building rooted in shared goals and mutual respect.
“Funders don’t fund need. They fund relationships and impact.” — David Wolf, senior Advancement leader, Tulane University
Why it matters:
Institutional advancement strategies must prioritize consistent engagement with funders, alumni, and community partners to position themselves for long-term support.
Takeaway 3: Know the Community—And Show Up With Humility
Universities that treat communities as end-users instead of co-creators are missing the mark. Funders are looking for institutions embedded in their regions, trusted by stakeholders, and aligned with lived experience.
“If you’re not already in relationships with excluded communities, you’re late. If you are, those relationships must be meaningful—not extractive.” — Kory Murphy, The Lemelson Foundation
Why it matters:
Community trust is now a core metric of credibility. For institutions competing for limited philanthropic dollars, local alignment can be the deciding factor.
Takeaway 4: Avoid Pitch Culture. Lead With Purpose.
Funders are collaborators, not contest judges. The most compelling proposals come from institutions that demonstrate shared purpose, alignment with funder values, and a clear understanding of the system they’re trying to shift.
“Don’t treat it like a pitch competition. Understand what the funder is tasked with achieving, and show how you’re part of that solution.” — Ify Aduba, Executive Director, Entrepreneurship Funders Network
Why it matters:
Leading with your “why” builds trust and credibility. This shift in tone—from sales pitch to shared mission—positions institutions as partners, not petitioners.
Takeaway 5: Your Embeddedness Is a Strategic Advantage
Community colleges, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), minority-serving institutions (MSIs), and emerging research institutions (ERIs) are often best positioned to drive innovation rooted in equity. Funders recognize this and expect institutions to own that identity and leverage it boldly.
“You were founded for justice. That’s your superpower. Use it.” — Kory Murphy, The Lemelson Foundation
Why it matters:
Emerging research institutions can stand out by leaning into their unique position and proximity to underserved communities. Philanthropy is increasingly looking for grounded, place-based innovation leadership.
Insights To Guide Your Approach
The webinar surfaced practical guidance for building stronger, more sustainable relationships with philanthropic partners. From aligning institutional priorities with foundation missions to shifting from transactional asks to long-term collaboration, the panelists offered direct insight into what works—and what to avoid.
The message was clear: funders are looking for purpose-driven institutions that lead with impact, prioritize authentic relationships, and stay rooted in the communities they serve.
Access the full session recording and slide deck here:
? View the Recording – Passcode: 9^7?fKG%
Thank you to our speakers and attendees for being part of this timely discussion.
To explore upcoming VIA Learning Series webinars, visit:
https://events.venturewell.org/via-virtual-webinar-series