About

Philanthropy can strengthen community wellbeing — but decision-making power is often concentrated among the wealthiest. DPRI brings scholars and community partners together to build evidence that shifts power toward communities through sustainable, trust-based and participatory approaches.

What We Do

• Co-create research on democratizing philanthropy (trust-based philanthropy, participatory grantmaking, community philanthropy, community-centric fundraising).

• Turn findings into practical guidance for funders and nonprofits.

• Share knowledge openly through briefs, webinars, and tools.

How We Work

• Academic–practitioner partnerships.

• Mixed-methods, rigorous, and accessible research.

• Centering lived experience and community priorities.

• Ongoing learning and transparent practices.