Building knowledge to strengthen philanthropy across the Southwest

Philanthropy is stronger when funders have a clearer understanding of the field they are part of. Philanthropy Southwest conducts and supports research that helps illuminate trends, challenges, opportunities, and emerging practices across the philanthropic sector and the Southwest.

As a regional network representing a diverse community of foundations and philanthropic organizations, PSW is uniquely positioned to identify questions that matter to funders, bring the right voices to the table, and turn shared learning into useful resources for the field.

Our research helps PSW members better understand the philanthropic landscape, make informed decisions, and see how their work connects to broader trends across the region. It also helps elevate the experiences and perspectives of Southwestern funders in national conversations about philanthropy.

Currently Researching the Cost of Uncertainty 
Understanding the Impact of Federal Policy Changes on the Southwest Philanthropic Sector

Philanthropy Southwest is conducting a mixed-method study examining how changes in federal policy are affecting philanthropic organizations across the Southwest. The research combines a review of existing literature and data with insights from the philanthropic sector to better understand both the immediate and longer-term effects of an uncertain federal policy environment. 

Preliminary themes emerging from the literature review point to three interconnected areas of impact:

1. Financial: Changes that may affect philanthropic resources, funding flows, and financial planning.
2. Organizational: Impacts on staffing, operations, strategy, and organizational capacity.
3. Relational: Changes in relationships among funders, nonprofits, government, and the communities they serve.

The study will help PSW and its members better understand how philanthropy is navigating uncertainty and identify opportunities to strengthen the sector's resilience and effectiveness. To participate in the project, please email Dr. Mallory Driggers, PSW Exective Vice President, at mallory@philanthropysouthwest.org

 

Our Research Over the Years

Over the years, PSW has led and supported research on issues affecting philanthropy and the communities we serve. These projects have explored topics such as:

• Economic Impact Study: Philanthropy Southwest partnered with graduate students from the Texas A&M Bush School to examine the economic impact of foundation giving across seven Southwestern states. Using IRS Form 990 and 990-PF data, the study found that an estimated $11 billion in direct foundation giving generates an additional $14 billion in indirect and induced economic activity, for a total estimated impact of $25 billion across the region. The findings give PSW members data they can use to demonstrate the broader economic value of philanthropy and support advocacy efforts with policymakers, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
• Latinx Mental Health Learning Collaborative: In partnership with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, PSW convened a funder-focused learning collaborative to better understand how philanthropy can support improved mental health outcomes and address health disparities in Latinx communities. The resulting report combines research, data, and insights from funders and community stakeholders to identify promising approaches and recommendations for philanthropic investment. The findings provide PSW members and other funders with a framework for applying a racial equity lens to mental health funding and supporting more effective and scalable investments.
• Explore More Research: Find additional research, reports, and resources from PSW and our member network in the Learning Library. 

 

Why Sector Research Matters

Philanthropy is constantly evolving. Changes in communities, the economy, technology, demographics, and the way funders approach their work all shape the sector. Yet funders do not always have access to research that reflects the realities of the Southwest.

PSW helps fill that gap by bringing a regional perspective to questions that affect philanthropy. Our research efforts create opportunities to listen across organizations, identify common challenges and emerging practices, and build a stronger understanding of the sector we collectively serve.

We believe research is most valuable when it leads to shared learning and action. By making findings accessible to our members and the broader field, PSW helps funders learn from one another and strengthens the collective capacity of philanthropy across the Southwest.