March Reflections: Finding Ways Forward
As the first signs of spring emerge and we celebrate the vernal equinox, we are reminded to use this time of year as an invitation to action. In this moment of renewal, we are called to move with purpose, to take the courageous steps toward the equitable solutions our communities need. This sense of forward momentum is at the heart of our 2025 Maine Philanthropy Center Conference theme, Pathways to Action: Equitable Solutions for a Vibrant Maine.
This spring, nonprofits across Maine are facing increasing pressures and threats—federal rollbacks on equity initiatives, restricted funding streams, and misleading attacks that undermine the vital work of organizations seeking to serve their communities well. Within this swirl of urgency and disruption, we must lean on the community tools, resources, and relationships already available to support in meeting this moment.
At a convening of philanthropic leaders MPC hosted last month, we learned our funder members are responding in exceptional ways: by exploring or investing in pooled funds, investing in nonprofit infrastructure, supporting impacted organizations with general operating grants, and amending grants to extend their timelines. We are inspired by funders like the MacArthur Foundation, The Northwest Area Foundation, and many Maine-based funders who are stepping up by giving beyond the 5% payout requirement—recognizing that in times of uncertainty, more flexible and sustained funding is needed to ensure nonprofits not only survive but thrive.
For funders looking for a way forward, GEO’s guidance provides a clear roadmap:
- Move money: Financial resources are a funder's most direct tool for impact. By increasing payouts, creating more flexible funding, embracing general operating support, giving out multi-year grants, supporting infrastructure, accelerating payments, and creating rapid response mechanisms, funders mobilize the financial resources the sector needs right now to respond to this moment.
- Collaborate with other funders: Collective action strengthens philanthropy’s response. Whether through pooled funds, coordinated grantmaking, or shared advocacy, funders can increase their impact, defending our sector with a united voice.
- Build capacity: Beyond financial support, funders can invest in legal assistance, cybersecurity, leadership well-being, and critical infrastructure that protects nonprofits from political and financial instability to ensure nonprofits have the systems they need to build resiliency.
- Look for creative solutions: Reimagine philanthropic practice—building new systems that are more resilient to political threats, forming cross-sector partnerships, and shifting funding strategies to better meet the evolving needs of nonprofits and communities.
We invite you to join us in exploring these pathways to action—both at our conference and in the ongoing conversations that will shape Maine’s philanthropic future.
In community,
Jeannette, Robert, Emilie, Sarah, and Tyler