Global Philanthropy Forum

What role does evidence play in informing the practice of philanthropy? How accessible and how relevant are the data we gather and share in the pursuit and evaluation of various strategies? In our hunger for evidence of impact — and the creation of a cycle of continuous learning — are we over-burdening grantees and program officers? And is “evidence-based decision-making” the only, or even the best way that smart choices are made? What role remains for intuition, hunch and heart? Hewlett Foundation President Larry Kramer will share the fresh perspective of a scholar who has entered the world of philanthropy, while Foundation Center President Brad Smith assesses the digital tools that are newly available to philanthropic decision-makers