About

Our Vision

ABFE will be central to a movement of grantmaking entities, donors and nonprofits to improve outcomes for Black communities and the country as a whole.

Our Mission

To promote effective and responsive philanthropy in Black communities.

WHO WE ARE

ABFE is a 501(c)(3), membership-based philanthropic organization that advocates for responsive and transformative investments in Black communities. Partnering with foundations, nonprofits and individuals, ABFE provides its members with professional development and technical assistance resources that further the philanthropic sector’s connection and responsiveness to issues of equality, diversity and inclusion. Established in 1971 as the Association of Black Foundation Executives, the all-volunteer organization was credited with many of philanthropy’s early gains in diversity. It since has evolved into a fully staffed, influential network. In 2013, the organization shed its descriptor and adopted the simpler ABFE (ab-fee) to better reflect its broadening membership.

WHAT WE DO

Advocacy

ABFE uses its position and networks in the field to share information for the express purpose of influencing the policies and practices in the field that may hinder the success of Black professionals or communities.

Knowledge, Training & Technical Assistance

ABFE has developed Responsive Philanthropy in Black Communities, a framework for grantworking that supports the dignity of communities and optimizes inherent strengths to ensure better outcomes for Black communities. This new offering to the field provides tools and consultants to help funders employ the framework.

Networking & Convening

ABFE uses its position and networks in the field to share information for the express purpose of influencing policies and practices in the field that may hinder the success of Black professionals or communities. The following programs represent our current networking and convening areas:

Black Philanthropic Network (BPN) | LEARN MORE >>

ABFE Annual Conference: | LEARN MORE >>

Professional & Leadership Development

ABFE’s professional and leadership development is primarily focused on members’ interests. ABFE provides information and other resources that inform grantmaking strategies and support career and leadership development for Black professionals in the field.

Connecting Leaders Fellowship | LEARN MORE >>

Leverage the Trust | LEARN MORE >>

OUR GOALS

TO ACHIEVE OUR MISSION WE ARE FOCUSED ON FOUR PRIMARY OUTCOMES:

  • The philanthropic sector has an increased understanding of the complex issues facing Black communities and they are better armed with the knowledge, leadership skills and decision-­making power to serve as strong advocates for Black communities in the philanthropic sector.
  • ABFE and its members are key partners and members of philanthropic efforts that strengthen Black communities.
  • The philanthropic sector is better linked to one another to develop joint or coordinated strategies that leverage resources for the greatest social impact in Black communities.
  • The philanthropic sector invests new and more effective resources targeted to priorities issues/polices that impact Black people and communities.
Sign up