New Fund to Champion Emerging Leaders and Nonprofits: “We’d Rather Pay Your Rent Than Fund the Same Household Names”

The Etolia Fund Launches to Champion Emerging Leadership with Trust-Based Philanthropy

24 January 2023

NEW YORK, NY – The Etolia Fund, a new donor-advised fund, has been established with the goal of championing emerging leadership in a way that models and exemplifies the principles of trust-based philanthropy. The fund's mission is to use its resources to support social good, movement-driven causes that align with its values, reducing grantee overhead and obligations and allowing emerging leaders to focus on growing their critical work.

The fund, which will donate at least 10% of its assets every year, will prioritize immediate assistance through small grants. These grants will go to emerging organizations that demonstrate innovative approaches to leadership, a commitment to inter-organizational partnerships, and have a track record of success in one or more of the following areas: human rights and movement-building; literacy and youth education; civic engagement; global cultural exchange and dialogue; literature and cultural commentary; and community-based journalism and investigative reporting.

The Etolia Fund's advisory team is made up of dedicated individuals from the world of nonprofit advocacy, philanthropy, and social impact. The team works with a range of partners to shape its giving strategy. The Etolia Fund’s management advisory team shared the following statement about their giving strategy:

"We believe in supporting the leaders and movements of tomorrow, not just those of today. We're not just looking for a flashy logo, and we aren’t afraid to take a chance on the unknown. True change often comes from those who are overlooked and under-funded; we'd rather support the small, emerging organizations that are making a real difference in their communities than fund those who already have plenty of support. We may be small, but our dreams are big and we're committed to supporting emerging leaders as they work to make their own dreams a reality."

Grants are unrestricted and range from $250 to $2,500. A full list of qualification requirements is available on the fund's website. Spring/Summer grant applicants should submit their proposal by Friday, March 31. The fund reviews grant applications on a rolling basis.

About The Etolia Fund

The Etolia Fund's vision is to support emerging leaders working to create a more just, informed, engaged, and creative world. The organization's values include strategic collaboration, intergenerational perspectives, trust-based grant-making, and partnerships across movements that leverage their collective impact for positive structural change.

For more information about The Etolia Fund, its mission, and how to apply for a grant, visit www.etolia.org.