Harwood CIRCLE of Catalytic Funders
The Harwood CIRCLE of Catalytic Funders explores how funders can catalyze change by leveraging financial and non-financial resources to address fault lines and strengthen civic culture in their communities. We’re building a national network of funders who have been actively using the Harwood approach for years and those new to it to examine how philanthropy can both “lead” and “get out of the way” to accelerate and deepen impact in community life. The CIRCLE convenes funders for regular webinars and annual gatherings to learn from one another, innovate together, and discover new and deeper ways to take action in communities.
Upcoming events
-
Second Annual Safe Haven for Funders
On January 22-23, 2026, join a select number of fellow travelers who, like you, are working in complex spaces and seeking to make a real difference in their communities and society for the Second Annual Safe Haven for Funders. You will leave feeling refreshed, regrounded, and re-energized.
Highlights from the first Safe Haven for Funders
“This space was marked by honesty, vulnerability, and an unwavering sense of purpose. Together, we’ve recommitted to stepping up—not when it’s convenient, but when it’s needed. The Harwood Institute has shown us that hope is powerful, and the work ahead is ours to do.”
Frustrated by a lack of progress?
Four members of The Harwood CIRCLE of Catalytic Funders penned an open letter making this case to funders: It’s time for a different approach to creating change in our communities.
FOUNDING CIRCLE Members
