“To go far, go together”
How collaborative funds
are changing the world

“To go far, go together”
How collaborative funds
are changing the world

Introduction to collaborative funds

Enormous potential—and need

Millions of donors and nonprofit organizations work together every day to make positive changes around the world. Yet there is enormous potential—and need—to do more. The Philanthropic Partnerships team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation supports novel approaches to philanthropy that help drive greater resources to the people and communities who need them. We are especially excited about the more than 400 (and counting) collaborative funds that exist today. We hope this site helps raise awareness of collaborative funds and accelerates their efforts to advance equity worldwide.

About collaboratives

As an African proverb states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This idea is at the heart of collaborative funds, which are among the fastest-growing and highest-impact drivers of philanthropy.
A man moves a box as he helps out at a local food bank.

What they are

Collaborative funds are philanthropic organizations that align like-minded donors and direct their resources to the people and nonprofits that are accelerating progress on complex issues. Large collaboratives are especially well positioned to support generous givers who are eager to have a large-scale impact.
A man discusses plans with a colleague.

Who uses them

A growing and diverse community of donors are embracing collaboratives, whether they have $100 or $100 million to give. Experienced givers and new philanthropists alike are using collaboratives to accelerate their generosity and provide support where it’s needed most.
A preschool girl smiles in her classroom at Hilltop Elementary School.

Why they matter

No one can tackle systemic challenges alone. Collaborative funds bring givers together so they can make bigger bets, invest in bolder solutions, and connect with experts who know how to make lasting change. Collaboratives develop close ties to the communities they serve and build bridges between funders and the people and organizations they want to support.

Collaboratives, by the numbers

A boy in Uganda invites you to play the Cat’s Cradle string game with him.

Take action

Find collaboratives that match your interests and get involved.
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Resource hub

Dive deep into the history of collaboratives and how they function.

News and insights

Read the latest and hear from experts shaping the evolution of collaborative funds.
Skoll world forum billboard.

Skoll World Forum 2024 – Collaborative philanthropy – to and for Africa

At the Skoll World Forum in April 2024, over 75 participants came together to discuss the growing landscape of collaborative philanthropy in Africa.
By ELMA Philanthropies and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Bridge

How collaboratives can advance impact at scale

Jennifer Stout, Deputy Director, Philanthropic Partnerships at the Gates Foundation, shares insights on why more research is needed to truly understand how collaboratives can partner most effectively with their grantees.
By Jennifer Stout Deputy Director, Collaborative Philanthropy, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
PBC forum

Recap of insights from the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024

In September 2024, the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum gathered in Hong Kong to discuss collaborative philanthropy across Asia, the meaning of high-impact philanthropy, and charitable giving across the region.
By Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation