Notes from a recent speech by Stacy Palmer, Editor, The Chronicle of Philanthropy at a CASE conference I attended in Chicago:

Foundation assets have fallen 17% and it’s hard to estimate trends in 2011.  A cautious outlook. There is optimism as there have been several gifts of $100 million and above that have come to Universities, especially USC. The Committee on Philanthropy showed an 18% increase in corporate giving but most of it has been through drug makers giving in-kind gifts to patients due to the sagging economy.  Top priorities for Foundations are job creation and scholarship opportunities.

 

“What counts as a charity?” is being asked frequently. Position yourself well in the marketplace- why do you stand out? There is great emphasis on performance and innovation.

 

The administration has been mulling a reduction in value of charitable deduction for wealthy people.

 

4)How fraud are non-profits? Issues that affected NPR; Fiesta Bowl and 3 Cups of Tea

 

5)Rise of feisty donors

Focus on millionaires in emerging economies and not just billionaires.

 

Online giving is faster and more secure.

 

9)Everybody is a fundraiser– however the once with experience and skills will be better off.

 

10)Are there enough good fundraisers?: Campuses need to keep them inspired.