The Shifting Landscape of Philanthropy: A Strategic Leadership Workshop
Sushma Raman
Social Change & Philanthropic Strategist
The candid sector analysis nonprofit and philanthropic leaders need right now.
Philanthropy is at a turning point. Donor priorities are shifting, nonprofit leaders are under pressure, DEI commitments are being rolled back, technology is disrupting our missions and impact, and the relationship between foundations and nonprofits is being tested. In this three-hour intensive, Sushma Raman — leader in philanthropy and social change, Nielsen Philanthropy Fellow at Georgetown, former executive director of Harvard human rights center, and co-author of two books on rights and democracy — brings an insider's lens to the trends, challenges, and opportunities reshaping the philanthropic landscape. Drawing on decades of experience as a grantmaker, philanthropic and nonprofit leader, and strategic adviser to nonprofits and funders, Sushma offers the kind of candid, sophisticated analysis you rarely get to directly access. You'll leave with a clearer picture of where the sector is heading — and how to position your organization to thrive.
Workshop agenda
- 1:00PM EDT
Welcome and Introductions
Sushma introduces herself and the session; participants share who they are and what brings them via chat.
- 1:15PM EDT
The Shifting Landscape of Philanthropy
A candid and timely perspective on the major trends reshaping the philanthropic sector and implications for the causes and organizations they support
- 2:00PM EDT
Small Group Exercise
Participants work in breakout groups to apply key trends to their own organizational context. What's most relevant to where you sit? What's your biggest pressure point right now?
- 2:30PM EDT
5 Minute Break
A quick 5-minute water or bio break or for some "exercise snacks" -- getting some movement in before we sit again! Check out to learn more https://health.clevelandclinic.org/exercise-snacks
- 2:35PM EDT
The Foundation-Nonprofit Relationship: Tools for Funders and Nonprofits
We dig into the evolving relationships and expectations between funders and grantees — with practical and actionable frameworks and tools for both.
- 3:30PM EDT
Q&A & Open Conversation
Continue the conversation, get your questions answered. (Note that this workshop is a non-solicitation environment)
Learn directly from Sushma
Sushma Raman
Philanthropic leader and strategist, Harvard, Georgetown, Ford, Open Society
Who this workshop is for
Nonprofit Leaders
Executives and senior staff navigating shifting donor priorities, funding pressures, and uncertain philanthropic landscape.
Philanthropic Leaders
Foundation staff, program officers and individual donors seeking candid analysis and best practice to support grantees.Board Members & Emerging Leaders
Those who want to understand the shifting philanthropic landscape and implications for their work.
What's included
Live sessions
Learn directly from Sushma Raman in a real-time, interactive format.
Lifetime access
Go back to course content and recordings whenever you need to.
Community of peers
Stay accountable and share insights with like-minded professionals.
Certificate of completion
Share your new skills with your employer or on LinkedIn.
Maven Guarantee
Your purchase is backed by the Maven Guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
$295
USD