Man in silhouette overlooking body of water
By Stephanie Ellis-Smith, Founder and CEO
As we approach the end of 2023, we find ourselves compelled to reflect on the milestones and metrics that define our road to success. At our core, we measure success not just in numbers, but in the lasting impact we create for both our clients and the communities they serve. Let's dive into our year by the numbers, highlighting the quantitative and qualitative aspects that shape our narrative.
Quantitative Impact
Assets Under Influence (AUI): $2.8B
While we don't manage funds, we proudly guide charitable assets; we call them "Assets Under Influence" (AUI). As of December 2023, our AUI stands at an impressive $2.8 billion. This figure represents the combined philanthropic resources of our clients that we have the privilege of influencing for the long term, shaping the landscape of giving for generations to come.
Growth: Steady and Sustainable
Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for us; it's a key metric. Over our six years in operation, we've experienced a sustainable revenue growth of 30% year over year. This growth is a testament to our commitment to making a lasting impact in the philanthropic landscape AND being a role model for building a successful Black-owned business. We’re here for the long haul.
Client Portfolio: Expanding
From our humble beginnings of serving four clients annually, we've evolved into a dynamic team guiding well over a dozen clients each year while keeping our bespoke service level high. This expansion not only speaks to the quality of our services but also reflects the growing demand for our unique approach to philanthropic advising.
Service Offerings: Dynamic
Our steady growth has allowed us to offer our clients so much more now than when we began. In addition to our bespoke advisory service, which remains core, we now offer grants management, executor services for charitable estates, and most notably the Phila Venture Fund. The Fund is our new 501c3 entity that is able to host donor collaboratives, fiscally sponsor client-driven initiatives, and act as a re-grantor for private foundations.
Team Growth: From 1 to 8
In 2017, I was a solo practitioner and since then, we've flourished into a formidable team of eight. This expansion reflects our shared commitment to our mission and our responsiveness to the evolving complexities of the philanthropic terrain, ensuring a more impactful and tailored approach for our clients.
Increased Giving by Clients: $100M
The impact of our work is evident in the increased giving by our clients. From 2020 to 2023, we've mobilized over $100 million in new giving and assisted 12 clients in establishing brand new giving areas centering equity. These numbers underscore our ability to inspire and guide transformative philanthropy.
Qualitative Impact
Adoption of Equity-Based Practices: 100%
Beyond the numbers, we care deeply about HOW our clients give. A remarkable achievement for us is that 100% of our clients have adopted trust-based and power shifting practices. This includes embracing participatory grantmaking models, adopting a values-based approach to giving (i.e., giving beyond c3s to investing in individuals, c4s, and politics), making multi-year general operating support grants, simplifying grant processes, minimizing reporting requirements, and actively seeking input from grantees.
Thought Leadership
Sector Influence: Rising
Our impact extends beyond individual clients. In the last year alone, our perspective has been sought after by more than 15 different philanthropic sector organizations, networks, and major wealth advisory firms--as keynote speakers, facilitation experts, and trend spotters. This recognition underscores our thought leadership in the sector. As an example, you can listen to Senior Advisor Janell Turner expertly talk about the intersection of our work and the financial sector in this podcast.
Active Followers: Growing
Our commitment to sharing insights and knowledge is evident in the growth of our community. We currently have 894 subscribers to our monthly newsletter, Insights in Philanthropy, serving as a platform for sharing valuable information and fostering a sense of community among philanthropic stakeholders. Our subscribers are curious donors, nonprofits, foundations, professional advisors, and estate attorneys all keen to broaden their sector knowledge.
Social Media Engagement: Trending
While the exact numbers may vary, our impact on social media is substantial, with thousands of impressions and reposts. Our digital presence on LinkedIn and Instagram allows us to amplify our message, reaching a broader audience and influencing conversations in the philanthropic space.
Who We Are: Diverse
Our team's diversity is not just a statistic; it's our greatest strength. Comprising 100% women, over 66% BIPOC, 25% LGBTQ, and with a growing presence in the Midwest, our team brings a dynamic awareness of the grantseeking side, acting as a bridge between donors and doers. This diversity fuels innovation, empathy, and a richer understanding of the multifaceted challenges within the philanthropic landscape.
Looking back makes me excited for the future! 2023 is a narrative of growth, impact, and a steadfast commitment to transforming the face of philanthropy. As we step into the future, we carry these achievements with us, knowing that each number represents a life touched, a community empowered, and a step toward a more inclusive and impactful world. Thank you for being a part of our journey.