About the IGS
The International Grantmaking Symposium is a training and educational opportunity that builds advanced skills in cross-border grantmaking to unlock more funding from U.S. funders for charities, charitable projects, and social purpose organizations around the world. It pairs intensive skill-building workshops with impactful presentations on contemporary trends and developments in international philanthropy
This exciting event is where passionate changemakers — corporate and private foundations, philanthropists, advisors, attorneys, and nonprofit practitioners — come together to reimagine the future of global philanthropy. Whether you're looking to sharpen your expertise, connect with like-minded peers, or gain practical insights into cross-border philanthropy, IGS offers an inspiring space to explore innovative solutions, share impactful stories, and stay ahead of the ever-evolving rules and regulations shaping international grantmaking.
Through expert-led presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on skill-building workshops, attendees will delve into practical approaches to funding nonstandard grantees, supporting public and private sector programs, and overcoming challenges in international giving. Topics will include navigating regulations and compliance, supporting partnerships in difficult contexts, and unlocking new opportunities for cross-border philanthropy.
Attendees will leave the IGS 2025 better equipped to navigate the rules of cross-border grantmaking and to implement innovative funding models, helping U.S. philanthropic funding reach more people around the world.
Why should I attend the IGS?
Attendees will leave the IGS better equipped to implement the rules and regulations of cross-border grantmaking to support innovative and novel models of partnership funding, unlocking more giving and giving more people around the world access to U.S. philanthropic capital. Other takeaways include:
- Build new skills, or hone existing skills, in advanced cross-border grantmaking;
- Make connections with colleagues in the international philanthropy and cross-border grantmaking industry at our engaging evening events and networking breaks;
- Learn from our expert speakers and panelists that frames existing problems in new and innovative ways;
- Get inspired to act differently, powered by new tools for funding unique partners; and
- Celebrate the collective impact of our cross-border giving through the eyes of the grantees we support.
Who should attend?
- Grant officers or program officers working with U.S. private operating foundations
- Trustees of family or private foundations
- Corporate Citizenship, Community Engagement, or Foundation leaders and decision makers
- Philanthropic advisors
- Community foundation or other DAF sponsor staff in key grantmaking roles