As a consequence of unprecedented worldwide wealth accumulation and the rise of new philanthropists over the last two decades, institutional foundations’ giving (such as Ford Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation and Carnegie Foundation) has declined as a percentage of the overall philanthropic marketplace along with their influence to bring about social change. As new wealth within the United States and across the world flows to philanthropy, the philanthropists themselves are changing. New philanthropic leaders—living donors—are often self-made entrepreneurs and investors who bring an aggressive, innovative orientation to their philanthropy. These “impatient optimists” are often willing to experiment, write big checks, and be disruptive in their approach.
As a result, in recent years we have seen several traditional foundations make dramatic breaks from past ways of working. Some are doing so by reimagining giving and joining these impatient optimists utilizing a “big-bets” approach and committing significant resources to tackling a well-defined problem. We define big bets not merely as one-shot large grants, but commitments that require focus on a targeted set of outcomes connected to time-bound milestones, as well as identifying a set of leaders who are entrusted with these outcomes. Big bets can be driven by one philanthropy or by a collaborative venture; similarly, they can be granted to one organization or many. They are gifts of typically $10 million or more and often launched via a competitive process. At their core, big bets are aimed at achieving transformational social change.
Save the Children is embarking on a strategy to become “big-bettable.” We are seeking the support of an Innovative Philanthropy Fellow to help research and inform our strategy to secure big-bet awards.
- Research new trends in philanthropy that are aimed at achieving transformational social change
- Research existing “big-bet” competitions/awards and conduct analysis of common themes that emerge. Who is winning these awards, and why? Is there a typology?
- Present findings and recommendations to the senior management team
- Candidate must be strategic-minded and a critical and analytical thinker
- A candidate with an interdisciplinary background is strongly preferred, including studies in international relief and development; philanthropy; technology and innovation; design thinking; business administration; anthropology; sociology; philosophy; and political science
- Ability to research broadly, make connections and synthesize information into strategic talking points
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to multi-task
- Resourcefulness and willingness to take initiative and work independently
- Possess strong writing skills, solid interpersonal skills, and ability to work easily in a team environment
- Must be proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint
- Currently eligible to work in the U.S.
- Meaningful work under the direct supervision of an experienced Save the Children staff member
- Structured learning and development program
- Highly collaborative and innovative teams
- Networking program with managers across the organization
- Flexible schedule
- A family friendly work environment
- The knowledge that the work you are supporting is changing the lives of children all around the world